Pakenham race cancelled for the 27/5/2012 due to predictions of poor weather.

Bryan Wright

No racing tomorrow

Gippsland cycling club fielded a very strong group of riders at the Pakenham criterium circuit last Sunday with two new faces in Division 1

In his first race with the club, Rhys Davie did not take long to show that he had what it takes, not only stay with the bunch, but to stamp his intentions in the results.

Rhys kept the pace on, along with Eastern A grader, Stuart Bendall and our own Brett Smart and Rob Green. All competitors knew that any attempt to make a break would be quickly covered. It was not until the half way mark that a very strong move was initiated by Brett to break the bunch into two separate groups.

The breakaway group of Brett, Rhys and Stuart worked together to maintain the gap. The sprint finish was quite exciting. Brett began early, in an attempt to catch the others by surprise. His move was quickly countered by the blistering pace of Rhys who opened up a huge lead of about 20metres with 300metres to go. This was enough to win comfortably from Stuart who came home in a fast finishing burst in front of a tiring Brett in third position. Rob was next in the following bunch.

Results:

Rhys Davie 1st

Stuart Bendall 2nd

Brett Smart 3rd

Division 2, saw a much different race style. The bunch kept together for most of the contest until a break of three riders took control.

It came down to a sprint finish again. Jeff Smith held on for a narrow victory, with John Eddy, a half bike length away in second and Laurie Black close on their heels in third place.

Laurie should be very pleased with his efforts, as he does not have a racing background in cycling. He only started a few years ago, and has shown a significant improvement on every race.

It just goes to show that, at 74, it is never too late.

Results:

Jeff Smith 1st

John Eddy 2nd

Laurie Black 3rd

Michael Lynch 4th

Please note that Goulburn Valley's 'Open' has been
changed from the 19th August, 2012 to the 26th. August, 2012, which is to be held at Kialla

Every second Sunday, the Gippsland cycling club race at Pakenham on what is an outstanding criterium course over 800m.

Sundays race, was run in perfect conditions, with little wind and a mild temperature. Two divisions took to the line.

Division 2, although light in numbers, quickly eliminated most of the field in the early stage of the contest. As the last few laps drew near, only two riders were left to challenge for the final sprint. John Eddy proved to have just that little more to take the honours over Peter Webb.

Division 1, was the normal fast pace encounter with Bryan Wright setting the standard. This type of contest was one of fitness, speed and concentration. Miss a break and you suffer the consequences.

Again, after a short time, only four riders were left in the leading bunch. Although Ian Miller, Cameron Wyatt and Rob Green, did some of the work in front, it was Bryan who dictated the terms and eventually attacked the rest of the bunch to break away and eventually win comfortably. Ian, Cameron and Rob were left to fight for the minors. This in itself was a complete change of tactics. Each of them knew that one mistake would cost a place at the finish. Ian made the telling move and attacked with every ounce of determination he had. Rob quickly saw the move and jumped onto his wheel and the two worked together to keep Cameron at bay.

The sprint for the minor placing saw Rob in second and Ian taking third.

Results:

Div. 2 John Eddy 1st

Peter webb 2nd

Laurie Black 3rd

Div. 1 Bryan Wright 1st

Rob Green 2nd

Ian Miller 3rd

Still recovering from Saturday’s heat, cyclists from both Gippsland and Eastern Vets cycling clubs were not deterred from a solid morning of very competitive racing last Sunday.

Three divisions took part. After working out the grading details, it looked like the scene was set for a chance to see how the two clubs would fare against each other. But within each division, most were only concerned about beating everyone else in the race, regardless of which club they represented.

This set the stage for one tough race, especially in division 1 and 2, which were combined at the start. Cyclists are renowned for their egos, and a win is the most important objective in their minds.

Division 1 and 2 raced for 1 hour plus 2 laps of the 800m circuit, whilst division 3 for 45min. plus the two.

Right from the start, Bryan Wright and Jamie Goddard (both Div. 1), let their intensions known. If you are going to stay in the bunch, you had better be prepared for some fast, lung bursting attacks. Well, after only 4 minutes, half the riders from division 2 were off the back. So punishing was the speed. Even up the back straight, the pace was relentless, often reaching 42 km/hr against a strong headwind.

The only other division 1 rider, Jean Phillipe Leclercq and four div. 2 competitors managed to hold on to the pace setters. This left only seven riders and there was still one full hour to go.

Most of the riders were thinking, how are we going to hold on to this relentless onslaught?

At about half way into the competition, Jean Phillipe was the next casualty, leaving Bryan and Jamie (still dominating proceedings) with the div. 2 group of Darren Woolhouse, David Ryan, Marcus Herzog and Rob Green, gasping for air after every surge. Although, the Div. 2 boys did some turns, it was becoming harder and harder to stay together.

The pace, however did relent somewhat towards the end, as each rider was trying to conserve their energy for the finish.

The foxy Jamie initiated the sprint and was rewarded with a win, followed by Marcus, Bryan and Rob.

Results:

Division 1 1st Jamie Goddard

2nd Bryan Wright

3rd Jean Phillipe Leclercq

Division 2 1st Marcus Herzog

2nd Rob Green

3rd David Ryan.

The Division 3 race was by no means an easy encounter. The all male riders, except for the sole female competitor, Sharon Marston, were also very serious with their intentions. That was to try hard and win, if they are good enough.

The pace was quite respectable, as several cyclists had dropped off the main bunch over the first 30 minutes. It was about this time that three riders, Les Mclean, Geoff Cranstone and Zenon Gawronski,

decided it was time to stamp their superiority by making a break away.

Their move proved to be a winning one, as they kept the pace on and it was going to be between this trio for the placings.

Zenon was the quickest in the sprint and was rewarded for his efforts.

Results:

Division 3 1st Zenon Gawronski

2nd Les Mclean

3rd Geoff Cranstone

Div. 1

1st Bryan Wright

2nd Paul Wilson

3rd Tony Bennett

4th Kevin Jackson

Div. 2

1st John Eddy

2nd Greg Minne

3rd Geoff Cranstone

4th Michael Lynch

The club's AGM resulted in the following members taking up (or continuing) their roles for 2012,

President Steve Flower

Vice President Terry Watchorn Rob Green

Secretary / Treasurer Ray Rhodes

Assistant Secretary Rob Green

Public Officer Ray Rhodes

Web Master Ray Rhodes

Handicapper Steve Flower

Assistant Handicapper Rob Green

Racing Committee Rod Cheyne Terry Watchorn Graham Nankervis

In addition a discussion on the merits of the club holding an Open Handicap race in 2012 took place and the resulting vote decided that the club will not promote the event in 2012. Therefore the Secretary has ben instructed to inform the VVCC that the race will not take place in 2012.

Despite the very warm conditions on Sunday morning, Division 2 cyclists from Gippsland and Eastern Veterans competed in a 50 minute criterium race. Our Eastern sister club have warmed to our 800 metre criterium course because of its safety and wide roads. To this extent, three first time competitors remarked on how much they enjoyed the competition. One of these, Ken Woollard, who is now 84 years of age, still competes many decades after his world championship title.

The race itself kept a reasonably high tempo reaching speeds of up to 37 kph in an effort to shake off fellow riders. This, however, did not deter each member in the race as they were altogether with one lap to go. But the younger competitor, Jeff Smith, took the honours on the line, with Brian Forder fighting on for second place, and John Eddy in third position.

The Division 1 Group, although depleted in numbers, proved to be a hard encounter, with the super fit Bryan Wright dictating terms. Ian Miller and Rob Green barely hung on to his relentless speed but managed to stay in the home straight at the finish.

Results: Division 1

Bryan Wright 1st

Rob Green 2nd

Ian Miller 3rd

Division 2

Jeff Smith 1st

Brian Forder 2nd

John Eddy 3rd.

There was no complacency on Sunday for those who thought that the one hour criterium race at Pakenham was going to be an easy walk in the park, especially if Bryan Wright has his way.

Competing in Division 1, Bryan said he was going to “ just roll along today and take it quietly,” as he had raced yesterday. But we all knew this was a tongue in cheek cliché and that we were in for one hell of a gruelling encounter. In great form, Bryan set the pace early, attacking and making everyone suffer. But, to the credit of most in the field, all competitors managed to hold on and even do some of the work in front. Brett Smart showed his fitness by initiating several attacks. His hard training over the last few weeks was paying dividends.

Rod Cheyne and Rob Green also contributed to the speed of the contest and closed down the gaps which were occurring often. At the 50 minute mark (with 10 minutes to go), Bret made his move.

Sensing that there was serious fatigue with the riders at the front, he hit the bunch hard, accelerating with Bryan hot on his heels. This move was just enough to break up the bunch. Although Rod and Rob made an effort to close the distance, it was too late. Both Bryan and Brett were working well together to keep the bunch at bay by sitting on 38km per hour.

Bryan then showed his superior class with one lap to go and broke away from Bret to win comfortably.

Results:

Bryan Wright !st

Brett Smart 2nd

Rob Green 3rd

Rod Cheyne 4th

Division 2 was a much slower affair. But each rider competed at their level of ability. Competitors were more content to share the lead, but at the same time, wary of each other.

Although a number of attacks were made, they were quickly nullified by the bunch. It was John Eddy, however, who took the initiative on the last lap. He opened up a 40 metre lead from the much improved Laurie Black and the ex.school boy champion Greg Minne, to win.

Results:

John Eddy 1st

Laurie Black 2nd

Greg Minne 3rd

Ian Jones 4th

The club's AGM meeting is being held at the Kernot Community Hall at 7pm on Feb 8th.  All members are encouraged to attend and participate in the club's affairs.

Steve Flower will step down as President.

Ray Rhodes will step down as Secretary/treasurer (etc)

Candidates are sought for all positions.

President

Vice President

Secretary/Treasurer

Public Officer

Web Master

Handicapper

Assistant Handicapper

Committee members

Racing Committee

The race programme has been updated with the summer races.

Any queries about the races or venues call Rob Green 5655 2507 or Steve Flower 5672 2147

New address

Lot 30C Redgum Road

Briagolong

Vic 3860

New Phone:  5145 5656

Email addresses remain the same

Dear Members,

It is with deep regret that I inform all Gippsland vets that Terry Watchhorn’s wife (Gwenda) passed away this morning at about 5.30am.

She is now at peace after a very long illness.

I will be sending a card on behalf of the club to Terry and his family.

Should you wish to also pass on your sympathy, Terry’s address is 56 Parr St., Leongatha 3953.

The funeral has not been finalized, but will most likely be later next week.

Rob and Jo Green.

The Gippsland Vets Cycling Club had its first real race for many weeks at Pakenham on Sunday, 27 November, 2011. Again it looked like no racing would take place, as torrential rain had been threatening for several days. So it was pleasing to have the opportunity to ride on a great criterium circuit at Pakenham with riders from the club and Eastern Vets. Although the field was relatively small, the standard of competition was very close. As some riders had not raced for several weeks, it was still going to be an interesting competition.

Bryan Wright, the strongest in the field dominated early by making several attacks in an effort to weaken as many riders as he could. It was not long before one rider felt the going a little tough, and he was the first victim. Most riders took turns of leading the bunch, but were cautious of an attack from Bryan, so it was essential to keep a little in reserve to counter his moves. With only a few laps to go of the 80 0metre circuit, Bryan made his most devastating attack and left everyone in the field, bar one, in his wake.

The final result was David Ryan, 1st, Bryan Wright 2nd, Rod Cheyne 3rd.

This race would have benefited every rider as tactics and racing fitness levels were realised and perhaps the result would be different next time.

Its that time of the year again so membership renewals are required.

Since the licence fee has gone up $10 for 2012, the club has voted to keep the membership costs the same as last year at $130, by reducing the club membership by $10, thereby holding the cost at $130.

2012 membeship requires a new application form with an extended disclaimer.  Please ensure that you use the new 2012 form as old forms will not be accepted.

Rob Green and Steve Flower both have the new style form.

Last Sunday, 1 October, 2011, was arguably the best racing with the most competitive group of riders so far this year at the Pakenham Criterium course. With the eight starters in Division 1, each rider was capable of a place. The first day of daylight saving was also one of the best days weather wise on this particular racing track. It was good to see new faces in the field, as there was some degree of uncertainty with regard to each competitor’s ability.

The one hour race started off with respect for each other as riders were unwilling to make the first move. Then the attacks began. Bryan Wright got the ball rolling by increasing the speed by 10kms an hour and putting his rivals on notice. It was clear from this point that to stay in the leading group was going to be quite difficult. Most riders did their share of attacks including Rob Harris, Rob Green, Rod Cheyne, Jeff Gerrish, Ian Miller and Gary Campbell. But it was Gary who was the first casualty to be dropped. Once a rider loses contact with the main bunch it is almost impossible to get back in the race. Several attacks were made consistently until the last 10 minutes, where riders found it difficult to break away from the rest of the field. With 2 laps to go of the 800 metre circuit, Ian Miller surged forward in an attempt to catch the bunch by surprise. Being ever alert, each rider quickly followed and it was not until the very last lap that Bryan Wright, Marcus Herzog and Rob Harris managed to gain a 20 metre breakaway. These 3 riders hung on to make the three final placings, with Marcus Herzog first, Rob Harris second and Bryan Wright third.

The race in Division 2 was an entirely different affair. The pace was reasonably slow as each rider was aware that if any attack was made it would be quickly covered and the bunch therefore were quite content to wait for the final lap and make the race into a sprint finish. In first place Robin Condie won comfortably, with John Eddy second and Laurie Black third.

All riders were extremely impressed with the racing standard and although they may not have gained a place, everyone gave it their best.

Don’t forget tonight’s the start of Summer Crits; racing starts at 6pm sharp!

 Racing cost $10/rider

No License no ride.

Tool bags, pumps, lights should be removed from all bikes and helmets. SPECIAL NOTE: If you have cable ties on your helmet for the magpies you will be fined & forced to enter the 2012 Toughen Up Series!!

Dropped riders to exit circuit when requested

Riders to leave the track immediately upon finishing, whilst staying left.

We also request you return race numbers immediately after racing , plus place getters must come & collect monies before going back to your car; additionally please exit the facility as quickly as possible so we can lock up.

Hi all......

As you may or may not be aware our Wednesday girl, Karen Munro has lost her 18 month battle with Lungcancer last friday....

The service will be held on friday in Warragul for anyone wishing to attend....

Karen Munro

MUNRO. - A Service to celebrate the life of Karen Munro will be held at Danny's The Venue, Logan Park (Showgrounds), Warragul on FRIDAY (Sept. 30) at 3 p.m. At the conclusion of the Service the Funeral will proceed to the Velodrome for one final lap. A Private Cremation will follow No flowers by request A donation in lieu may be made to the Australian Lung Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the Service.

Any questions about upcoming racing or volunteers to assist call Rob Green 56552207 or Steve Flower 0438931672