Lenny Griffiths claimed the Echuca Moama Cycling Club's Harry's Handicap, one of the marquee races for the season.
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Moama Bowling Club EMCC Winter Race Series – Harry’s Handicap
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Mother nature didn’t disappoint for our annual pilgrimage to Trewins for Harry’s Handicap, proudly sponsored again by the Caledonian Hotel.
Even the mention of the word Trewins seems to signal the official start of winter.
As riders gathered for the start, the clouds moved over, the wind picked up and those who’d ridden from Echuca reported just a sprinkle of rain.
With the 52km course our most challenging for the season, anticipation was at fever pitch for the strong 18 rider field, with 23 minutes separating limit and scratch.
Conditions were difficult from the gun, with the stiff southerly breeze providing a strong right to left buffeting for the first 10 kms.
The back of Trewins provided a focal point for all groups, with riders challenged to uphold the ‘let’s stay together’ mantra they’d agreed to.
In limit, Glen Kettle had already boiled, Claire was muttering about the handicapper, while the most decisive move was that of Lenny Griffiths who burst clear of Kevin Laffy and brother George Griffiths.
To win, he’d need to solo for 42 kms.
Riders took on a challenging 52km course. Photo: Richard Bailey.
As groups rounded the first U-turn and hit the southerly, it was clear that life would be difficult.
Second limit were proving too strong and in-sync for limit, James Parker was stretched while block had swallowed up Matt, John and Claire.
John hung tough, but Claire and then Matt were unceremoniously spat out the back.
Lenny was moving through the field strongly.
For those being overtaken, the disappointment of being passed was tempered by the brief respite provided by the T4Greenspace Hilux motorpace.
With block and John reeling in second limit, the big question was could Lenny reel them in?
That was answered at the top of the final climb as Lenny joined the reforming group of Nick McNair, Nick Woods and Brayden Walsh (welcome Brayden for your first EMCC Winter Race).
With 4 km to go, Lenny attacked to cross the line first from Nick Woods in 2nd, Nick McNair 3rd, Brayden Walsh 4th, John Brian 5th and Mel Smolenaars the fastest female.
Thanks to Cam and Troy for handicapping and marshalling, thanks to lead vehicle Sheryl Kettle and our photographer Richard.
A big thanks too for those who provided food and good humour for our Giro Pasta night - tutti si sono divertiti tantissimo.
We’re back in two weeks' time on May 31 for the Coolabah Turf Lockington Handicap.
19°C