Having the largest group for the night, A-grade set off at a cracking pace — and with stories of weekday bunch rides at a torturous pace — the big question was could anyone go with Lenny Griffiths?
Lenny showed his hand early with a break that had him solo off the front. Valiant attempts by the rest of the group to get away were particularly led by younger brother George.
With a strong constant effort, Lenny lapped the field, ensuring the win.
In a sprint to the line it was Troy Griffiths second, followed by Jack Arnold in third.
B-grade
Team Giant — Nick McNair, Nick Woods and Matt Sherman — were joined by Darren McKemmish with Ben Oman racing after his successful nationals campaign a week ago.
Hot weather and a hot pace once again splintered the group with Matt, Nick and Nick left to fight for the win.
With a lap to go it was anyone’s race, in a valiant attempt to emulate the pros and cross together, Sherman crossed first in front of Woods in second and McNair third.
C-grade
After a few weeks as an interested spectator, Brayden Walsh stepped up to race with C-grade regulars Claire Goodman, Matt Dobeli, Liam Clohesy, while Will Kettle and Darren McKemmish looked for redemption after the B-grade race.
In a crazy race of attrition, first to go was Matt with a rear puncture after four minutes.
With new rider Brayden forcing the pace, everyone was struggling to hold his wheel resulting in Claire, then Liam and finally Darren dropping off leaving Brayden to win by the best part of a lap from the only other finisher Will Kettle.
D-grade
A small field of three — Paul Oman, Greg Harvey and Zenon Gawronski — was guaranteed a podium finish. Given the option of a shorter race, all three gave a resounding no, 25 minutess + 3 laps it would be.
With a steady pace throughout, the race would come down to the final lap, Paul looked to have the measure of the others. However, Greg had other ideas.
His frantic surge to the line was not quite enough to get the chocolates however, with Paul first, Greg second and Zenon third.
Thanks to all those who got to the track early to prepare. With the EM triathlon on next weekend, we'll give racing a miss — come and cheer on the EMCC riders on Saturday night.
11°C