Masters ACT Cycling Team

Track Nationals News

2012-01-06T10:45:00.001+11:00

Tony has found some news on the track nationals

Change of Dates and New Events for Australian Masters Track Championships

http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/default.asp?Page=45168

The Masters ACT Cycling Team website and blog have moved

2011-12-22T15:29:00.000+11:00

Please update your bookmarks

The MACT Blog can now be found at vmactblog.vikingscycling.org.au

The MACT Website can be found at mact.vikingscycling.org.au or vmact.vikingscycling.org.au

Masters Dates to Remember 2012

2011-12-22T15:27:00.001+11:00

For more information go to the events page

Check out the Cycling Australia Masters Page

NSW Masters Individual Pursuit Championship Thur 02 Feb 12
NSW Masters Sprint Championship Fri 03 Feb 12
NSW Masters Time Trial Championship Sat 04 Feb 12
NSW Masters Points Race Championships Sat 04 Feb 12
NSW Masters Women's Team Sprint Championships Sun 05 Feb 12
NSW Masters Team Sprint Championships (Under 135yrs) Sun 05 Feb 12
NSW Masters Team Sprint Championships (Over 135yrs) Sun 05 Feb 12
NSW Masters Scratch Race Championships Sun 05 Feb 12

Cycling Australia Masters Track National Championships - Sydney DGV - Wed 22 -Sun 26 Feb 12
Track Nationals News - More events and some date changes

NSW Individual Time Trial Championships - Sun 21 Jul 12

NSW Masters Individual Time Trial Championships - Breadalbane Public School - Corner Collector Rd & Cullerin Rd Breadalbane - Fri 07 Sep 12
NSW Masters Criterium Championships - Marulan Driver Training Centre - Sat 08 Sep 12
NSW Masters Road Race Championships - Gunning TBC - Sun 09 Sep 12

Australian Masters are 3-6 October
Australian Masters Individual Time Trial Championships - Wed 03 Oct 12
Australian Masters Criterium Championships (Selected Men's Heats + all Women Finals) - Thur 04 Oct 12
Australian Masters Criterium Championships (All Men's Finals) - Fri 05 Oct 12
Australian Masters Road Race Championships - Sat 06 Oct12

Washup on the 2010 Australian Masters Road Championships

2010-09-29T14:01:00.002+10:00

It was cold, wet and windy! Temperatues during the day were around 4-5 degrees

Results can be found here or downloaded from the MACT website here

Terry Moore was the best performing rider, with everybody finishing there or there-about in difficult conditions.

The scheduling was also a bit problematic, making room for the Herald sun Cycling Classic on the Sunday.

The Time Trial was held on Friday, Criteriums on Saturday around a longish circuit more like a road course. The Road races were conducted on a windswept course out near Miners Rest, adjacent to the Ballarat Race course. More details to follow as I get time

2010 Australian Masters Road Championships

2010-07-06T20:55:00.001+10:00

2010 Australian Masters Road Championships

If you're over 30 and love racing then the 2010 Australian Masters Road Championships are the event for you. Head to Ballarat from 24 to 28 September 2010 to line up in time trials, criteriums and road races........more

http://www.vic.cycling.org.au/?MenuID=Racing/20072/16049/,Calendar/20054/15554/,2010_AMRC/20325/34816/

NSW Masters Road Championships 2010

2010-05-19T14:35:00.001+10:00

2010 Australian Masters Track Championships

2010-03-05T14:41:00.016+11:00

AUSTRALIAN MASTERS TRACK CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS
DISC VELODROME MELBOURNE
15-18 APRIL 2010

ACT TEAM REPORT – By Jim Veal

Twelve riders from the ACT contested 34 individual events as well as the Team Sprint (11 riders). The depth of Masters track cycling in the ACT was demonstrated in the Team Sprint. Vikings were the only club to feature multiple teams and the No 1 team was the highest ranked team from one club. Overall ACT riders in individual events came away with 2 Gold, 6 Silver and 5 Bronze medals.

All our team members embraced the championship atmosphere and rode their hearts out, with some reaching significant milestones. Congratulations to Bill Laing on his first (and second) podium finishes at National level. Bill won bronze in the Time Trial, then silver in the Sprint taking it to three rides against the eventual gold medallist Stuart Vaughan. Daniel Rickard rode superbly and showed great courage and dignity to continue in the Sprint finals after being knocked off at high speed, finally finishing in fourth position. Congratulations to Graeme Allbon who won 2 gold and 1 silver and the Champion of Champions jersey. In the M4 Points race Graeme won every sprint except one, which was won by our perennial rider Allan Bontjer following a 3 lap solo break.

Kerry Knowler and Terry Moore continued to develop their expertise on the velodrome including the Team Sprint. Kerry finished with 1 silver and 2 bronze medals. Terry distinguished herself and was very excited after being selected for a drug test.

Masters	Name	TT	IP	Points/Scratch	Sprint
W3	Kerry Knowler	40.068 Bronze	2.37.041 Bronze	Silver
W4	Terry Moore	43.114 (5th)	2.51.348 (4th)
M3	Bill Laing	52.000 Bronze			11.822 Silver
M3	Daniel Rickard	52.956 (4th)			11.563 (4th)
M3	Jerome Villegas	55.406 (9th)			13.291 (12th)
M4	Gary Aisbitt	55.375 (7th)
M4	Graeme Allbon	52.815 Silver	3.34.219 Gold	Gold	12.106 (6th)
M4	Allan Bontjer	1.00.819 (8th)	4.10.398 (10th)	(6th)
M4	Steve Jones		4.08.289 (9th)	(8th)
M5	Anton Wurzer	37.926 (6th)	2.34.138 (9th)	(6th)	12.477 (7th)
M5	Mark Harris	38.390 (8th)	2.25.447 Silver
M4	Jim Veal	38.511 Silver	2.38.090 Bronze	Bronze	12.443 Silver

2009 Australian Cyclists of the Year

2009-11-24T20:56:00.003+11:00

Graeme Allbon & Michelle Crawford win the 2009 Australian Cyclists of the Year awards

Jason and Graeme with Cadel

ACT Highlights

MACT cyclist Sue Powell wins Para Cycling Female cyclist of the year at 2009 CA Awards. Well done Sue!
MACT cyclist Graeme Allbon named 2009 male mater of the year at 2009 Cycling Australia Awards. Quite deserved Graeme!
Jason Parkes CCC ACT named Australian Sports Commission Volunteers of the Year. Thanks for all your hard work Jason

Cycling Australia media here

Summer Criterium Racing

2009-10-26T14:09:00.000+11:00

Anyone with an ACF licence can ride in our summer criterium team. If you want to ride in the MACT colours just contact SimonN to arrange to purchase a MACT kit

OK, we've got 3 teams worth of names for the MACT crit squad:

Firstname	Last Name	Crit grade
Graeme	Allbon	A
Ian	Downing	A
Mark	Harris	A
Sean	Moran	A
Simon	Niemeyer	A
Allan	Bontjer	B
Jim	Veal	B
Paul	Scherl	B
Simon	Claringbold	B
Steve	Jones	B
Gary	Rolfe	C
Peter	Harding	C
Ric	Fitch	C
ANTON	WURZER	D
Paul	Welsh	D
Ray	Gorrell	D
Richard	Gorrell	D
Simon	Gallacher	D
Sue	POWELL	WA
Vanessa	Essam	WA

Any more takers? Have I missed anyone?

It would be great to have 7 in each grade to slug it out together. After all, the Masters track is just training so that we can get a good crit lead-out train going!

Cheers

SimonN

Worlds 2009

2009-10-26T10:08:00.003+11:00

Jim Veal, World Champion!

Here are some results, lots of medals for MACT members

Some more pics..........

Worlds 2009

2009 Australian Masters Road Cycling Championships

2009-10-03T20:40:00.002+10:00

Results here

Photos here

Master’s National Champs in Canberra

2009-10-02T10:09:00.001+10:00

Good luck to everyone racing in the Master’s National Champs in Canberra this weekend as well as the World Master’s in Sydney the week after.

Battle on the Border Race Report

2009-06-13T09:24:00.007+10:00

The inaugural Tour de Tweed (or Battle on the Border) is a race that was hastily put together following the collapse of the Tour of Sunshine Coast. Time was against the organisers, but going for them was an incredible scenic backdrop and strong institutional backing from the local council and businesses. And so it was that a great race has been born. Despite a few glitches this Tour has all the makings of a classic for club cyclists around Australia, particularly Masters cyclists looking for a multi-day challenge without the enormous climbs of the Tour of Bright.

I was originally a bit disappointed about the demise of the TSC, which really suited my style of riding, but decided to enter its replacement as a means of escaping the Canberra winter and visiting my family, who had just moved to the QLD border. The format of the race seemed promising: TT and road race on day one; long road race on day 2; and a criterium on day 3. The 15% gradient on one of the climbs seemed a bit daunting for a non-climber, but by Canberra standards there was nothing too onerous. As the race guide states, the climbs are designed to be challenging, but not definitive. And so it turned out that all the road races ended up in a bunch finish, except for one crucial break away.

But let me back up a bit and begin with the timetrial on day one. The masters A riders had a reasonably early start on the Saturday morning, so I’d decided to turn up the day before and scope the course out, thank goodness!!! The course turned out to be a sort of rainforest ideal with a road surface that would make the cobblestones of Belgium blush! My favourite part was the short descent into a sharp left-hander (which was wet with a trainline going right through the middle of it) that then turned right onto a wooden bridge with transverse boards designed to achieve maximum bone-shaking. I was sure someone would come a cropper on it and seriously thought about whether to put the disk on (a few people decided to ride conventional bikes).

Now, in theory the TT course should have suited me to a “Tee” (or should that be "TT" — boom, boom): with the rough surface (being a heavier, power rider); two small power hills and 8km distance. However in reality I struggled to get into a rhythm, partly due to my new found caution after being involved in the Cootamundra crash — this came in very handy on stage 3, as you’ll read!!! — and partly because I was wheezing with asthma that I’ve only had informally diagnosed and did not medicate because I don’t have the proper exemption to do so. But the worst handicap occurred when, coming back over the jaw-slapping bridge, my front brake slipped and began rubbing heavily on the rim. I think I lost more time trying to fix the brake than from friction, but in any case I only ended up coming back in 5th place, albeit within 20 seconds of the leader. Still, after emphatically winning the Masters TT in Bright I’d hoped for more. In a way it wasn’t surprising. I remember seeing the guy who ended up winning (first name Nikoli aka ‘The Russian’) before the start warming up on his P4 Cervelo and Virgin air team kit thinking that the Elite guys had really nice bikes! But of course he wasn’t an elite rider; he was in my category as a Masters cat 1 rider (a category that is being abolished after this year because most decent riders young enough to rider Masters 1 are still riding elite). Now, far be it from me to use the term ‘burglar’ — this was perfectly legal after all — but in reality there were five or so serious riders who fell into this category who most of us in the race were giving 10 years to. Not sure why they didn’t choose to ride elite, but I did wonder whether they considered the race easy money. At this stage I was wishing I had the (Graeme) Albinator with me to help show these guys what old fellas can do!

So I set about making strategic friends as quickly as possible. I found the third placed rider after the TT (Craig Taylor) who is also a world champion at the masters level and recommended to me by Simon Claringbold as a handy break away partner. (The merit of this approach was reinforced by a very jitter bunch and a crash on the first climb where a nervy rider swung into an elite B rider, breaking his Zipp 303 front wheel.) He and I decided that we’d go on the second lap after the climb, just before the race hit a series of technical corners and into terrain that would be hard to spot us up the road. The break itself worked like a charm and we got away with ease, but after a km I looked back and saw the bunch bearing back down on us. Incredibly it was the U19 and elite riders doing the driving, an we weren’t even in their race!!!! We tried to get away a couple more times, with the same result: riders from the other categories chased us down.

More frustrating was the fact that the Russian slipped off the front a lap later with two riders from the other categories and no-one chased! So I drove hard down a hill and got within 30m of the escape. As I was about to bridge (near the bridge!) I looked back to see the rest of the pack in a long line behind me and thought to myself that I should let them share the work and swung off, upon which the whole bunch sat up to watch the escapees slip back up the road. A bit bemused, I didn’t worry too much because the pace was reasonably high and I figured we’d pull the escape before the finish. (Something you should never take for granted if you don’t have team mates with the ability and will to make the chase happen!!!) Sure enough, the break stuck and stayed about 30 seconds away to the finish, or at least the ‘Russian’ did.

As for the whole race (except the climbs) I was stuck near the front leading into the sprint, following the wheel of the best sprinter I knew in the bunch (a local Murwillumbah masters rider by the name Constanza). Constanza seemed pretty determined to take the sprint and even took a detour off the side of the road to move around some riders holding things up at the front. I thought to myself ‘well, in for a penny....’ and swung out off the road behind him and the two of us took off for the line, just as we hear a crash behind us. (I found out later that this was caused by an U19 rider changing line and taking at and Elite B grade rider, who broke his femur.) I was feeling pretty strong, but not too keen to do anything dangerous to take the sprint. So when I was blocked out on the right I swung left into a small gap that Constanza had left open. But sure enough he closed the door and I had to

settle for second in the sprint, but third overall behind the Russian.

And the door closes in the sprint...

So that was that. It turned out that with time bonuses I’d moved from 5th to 3rd on general classification. Fortified with this knowledge I donned the compression tights and hopped in the ice bath in anticipation of a ding-dong battle in stage 3...

...but in a way it was a disappointing race. I’d tried to get away a few times, but early on in the race I was mainly concerned with keeping enough energy to get over the 15% 500m long climb heading toward the Stokers Siding loop that we’d ridden in stage 2. A minor gap did form, but I didn’t worry. If there’s anything I can do well it’s descend a mountain, so I didn’t have too much trouble bringing the gap back (unlike the Canberra Tour, all the climbs at the Tour de Tweed are followed by descents). And the rest of the race we fairly conservative, with the lead riders in the Masters category hiding away in the bunch. The Russian stayed close to the front, as did I, with a slew of team mates there to chase any breaks (though he was plenty strong enough to do much of that himself). And so it seemed that the Russian was infallible, but I did pick a weakness: he wasn’t very good at cornering and I knew that the crit on the following day was technical, as was the last corner coming into the finale of stage 3. Neither of these was enough on its own to make up the 45 seconds he’d got on me with his break on stage 2, but if I played everything right and won both stages with a slight time gap I though I might be able to take him for first place on GC.

All this seemed a good idea until the skies opened up on the 30km final run back past Murwillumbah to Tumblegum, where the finish line (and a really good cafe!) awaited. I’d never raced in such heavy rain, with lightning falling around us too boot. The storm came from nowhere, since there’d been nothing but sun before that. I was sure the race would be neutralized, since I could barely see my hands, let alone the wheel in front. Feeling very nervous I chatted to Constanza (who I’d since befriended) about what the safest thing to would be: stay on the back or fight my way back up the front. Whatever the case I downgraded my ambitions from racing for the lead to simply staying upright. And so I went right to the front and drove the pace for a good part of the last 5km of the race, never getting further back than 3rd wheel. I simply didn’t care how much energy I spent. In the last km to go I’d missed a critical move by the Russian’s other ‘youngster’ team mates, with one launching the other off the front and then blocking. It was a great move, because the last km involved a climb over a bridge, which descended into a sharp right turn, then left into the last 500m to the line. I followed a surge by another rider, who faded, leaving me on the front. My choice was then stark, drive the pace, which would be safest, but kill my chances of placing well, or sit up to find a wheel to follow. I erred on the side of caution and drove the pace over the bridge and down the other side into the corner. Seeing the corner I wasn’t quite ready for just how nasty it was. Worse I’d forgotten who bad carbon wheels are for braking in the wet.

Sure enough, when I applied the brakes into the corner....nothing!!!! The gutter was fast approaching and, with 100 guys following me, also with no brakes, my options were limited. It’s here that a misspent youth riding motocross came in REAALLY handy. I put the bike sideways and my foot down to hold me up (you should see the worn metal on the bottom of the Speedplay cleats!!) Unbelievably I stayed up. Hooray! Then I heard the awful crunching sound of 20 guys coming down behind me!

As it turned out 5 other riders survived the corner. My new mate Constanza had made it through (the benefit of local knowledge!) and was on my wheel yelling at me to lead the sprint out. Now there was no real reason for me to do this, but I accelerated nonetheless, because you never know when you’re going to need allies, and hung onto that group to get 5th place with the same time. The interesting thing was that both the race leader and second place had come down in the crash and finished over a minute down, putting me in the lead. But because the crash occurred within 3km of the finish line the officials gave them the same time as my bunch. So much for benefit of riding smart and safe! Still, at least I’d kept all my skin, despite conceding the win.

And, as it turned out, indeed it was handy to make an ally, because I turned up to the last criterium race without my helmet (which I’d hung up to dry and forgot). So when I got to the race and saw Constanza I asked him whether he’d be able to help me find something. I then found out he was the local club president and was able to quickly source me something.

We then hatched a plan to get away very early on in the crit, using our cornering skills and sprinting abilities to advantage. It was the only way that we could get back the time on the Russian. I was still in third place, but only a few seconds behind second place. So I promised Constanza that if we got away I would give him the win, but otherwise I’d need the 10 second time bonus. Whatever happened, I was really looking forward to this crit. Not only was it super-technical, which I love! But we didn’t have those pesky B graders messing things up for us (or us for them).

One of the nasty corners on the crit course

As it turns out we did get away on the second lap of the crit for a couple of laps, but I lost Constanza on a couple of corners and he used a lot of energy to catch back up. I then found myself on my own and a fast approaching bunch. Realising that a break wasn’t going to happen I switched strategy to staying right at the front and covering absolutely everything during the race, including the attacks by the much fancied Trevor Ballyss (who apparently is a multiple Superbike -- motorbike -- World Champion, and funnily enough, rode a Ducati bike). I did this right until the last lap, when the Russian made a surge to the front and drove the pace hard. I couldn’t believe my luck, being second on his wheel. Nor could I believe that he thought he could ride the entire bunch off his wheel. Still, I was very grateful that he’d kept the pace high enough to stop anyone surging through right until before the last corner, where I launched my bid for the win.

Knowing that I could corner faster than most I’d planned to hit the last corner at the front as hard as I could and drive flat out for the last 150m to the line. It worked like a charm. The super-bike champion (Ballyss) was hard on my wheel into the corner but I’d managed to gap him slightly and accelerate away down the straight, making it a clear win.

I was ecstatic! My whole family had been there cheering me on and I didn’t want to let them down. Better still, I moved up into second place on GC.

So overall it was a great race, which would have been even better with a couple of team mates there. Next year I’ll try to talk the Albinator and Sean Moran into coming (both of whom are coming to Vikings to ride with MACT) so that we can really take it to the Russian and his fancy boy mates in Virgin! Well, we’ll see. Whatever happens it will be a great race with a great sense of comradeship among most of the riders, just like it was this year.

I’d thoroughly recommend the trip north for this one, despite a few glitches with mixed bunches, which will hopefully get sorted out for next year.

Simon Niemeyer

Report on the Wagga long weekend of racing

2009-06-10T09:57:00.003+10:00

Some pics

Unfortunately Simon Claringbold had a crash in the crit after doing a fantastic ride in the long handicap and then setting the crit on fire with very attacking racing.

Jim Veal raced into second place in the crit, well done with a big move up the straight punctuated by a long sprint.

Neil was there with Simon at the pointy end of the long handicap.

Jim Veal and Tony O'Connor represented MACT in the finish of the shorter handicap

Allan Bontjer had an attacking but fruitless race in the crit and suffered my way through the hills on Saturday. He hung on to the scratch bunch until 15km to go

It was good to see Andrew Mohr out on his road bike Saturday, but did not see him Sunday for the crit!

Neil rode extremely well in the A grade crit (only Masters rider) in a top class field

Vanessa Essem ran a fine 4th in her crit, well done.

Simon Junakovic had a hard mark and had to catch the sag wagon back in

Sue Powell had a flat in the handicap and rode well in the crit

Alain Arbaut rode well in the handicap, but suffered from cramps 20km from the finish

We all had a great weekends racing, also enjoying a meal and a few drinks together at La Porchetta on Saturday night.

Update on 2009 NSW Masters Shield - Vikings Win on recount

2009-05-28T22:27:00.002+10:00

Hi Simon,

I have completed a recount of the Masters points for the master Championships, and I on behalf of Cycling NSW would like to congratulate Tuggeranong Vikings CC on being the winners of the 2009 Masters Shield.

As the three riders you mentioned had large point scores to their name, this mean that Tuggeranong won the shield by a margin of over 50 points.

Due to the system not recognising the rider's transferral, all three riders were shown as belonging to their previously affiliated club.

We would like to apologise for this error, and once again congratulate all Tuggeranong Vikings Master's riders who competed at the Master's Championships.

An official statement will be placed in this weeks newsletter, along with the website.

Thank you and congratulations.

Place Club Road Crit Total

Tuggeranong Vikings CC 293 159 452
Sutherland Shire CC 266 130 396
Waratah Masters CC 217 112 329
Penrith Panthers CC 167 144 311
Illawarra CC 208 78 286
Nowra Velo CC 205 79 284
Northern Sydney CC 188 60 248
Hunter District CC 149 73 222
Randwick Botany CC 122 75 197
Canberra CC 144 50 194

Regards,

Aleece Longbottom

Administration and Events Promotion Officer

Cycling NSW

RAW Track is back for 2009!

2009-05-21T22:55:00.003+10:00

RAW Track is back again for 2009, we are exactly four Weeks out from Week 1 on Friday June 19. The season will run for 15 weeks concluding on Friday September 25.
The RAW media launch of what's new for 09 can be found by clicking on the video link below.

Till June 19; "if it isn't fixed, it's broken!'

2009 NSW Masters Club Shield

2009-05-21T22:31:00.001+10:00

2009 NSW Masters Club Shield

Congratulations to all riders who took part in what was a fantastic weekend of racing and weather!

And a special thankyou to all volunteers, organisers, and riders for making this a truly great, smooth running event.

A special congratulations goes to the winner of the NSW Masters Club Shield, the

Sutherland Shire Cycling Club!

		Crit		Road		Total
Overall place	Club	Start	Place	Start	Place
1	Sutherland Shire CC	51	79	105	161	396
2	Tuggeranong Vikings CC	42	73	90	149	354
3	Waratah Veterans CC	48	64	95	122	329
4	Penrith Panthers CC	42	105	75	97	319
5	Illawarra CC	69	12	120	88	289
6	Nowra Velo Club	24	55	85	120	284
7	Canberra Cycling Club	36	55	95	89	275
8	Northern Sydney CC	36	24	65	123	248
9	Hunter District CC	24	52	50	104	230
10	Randwick Botany CC	39	39	70	57	205

Congratulations also to the Penrith Panthers who did astonishingly well on their placing points in the criterium.

NSW Masters Road Race and Criterium Championships

2009-05-18T15:00:00.003+10:00

Lots of MACT members raced at the NSW Masters Road Race Championships hosted by Eurobodalla CC

Cootamundra Haycarters

2009-05-07T10:48:00.005+10:00

A big bunch of MACT riders raced at the Cootamundra Haycarters and Sunday recovery race

80 or so riders witnessed one of the biggest pile-ups anywhere! 5km from the finish when the bunch was moving along at 50kph 40 riders or so came down, filling the road 3-4 deep from drainage ditch to drainage ditch. The majority of people were OK, with a small number of broken collar bones and a dislocated elbow. Most of the damage was to expansive carbon bits and tyres. Most tyres saw 10-15cm of bald patches due to locking up trying to avoid the carnage

2009 National Masters Track Championship report

2009-04-15T12:27:00.008+10:00

14 intrepid track racers made the journey over the waters to participate in the 2009 Australian Masters Track Championship held in Launceston, Tasmania from April 1-4. Many cars full of riders, partners, bikes and associated equipment gathered in Melbourne on Sunday ready for an adventure on the high seas, whilst most others travelled by air on the Monday and Tuesday prior to the racing. The group had done research and knew that it was to make up over 10% of the start numbers so it was known that we started with distinct advantage- strength in numbers. Add to this the fact that the riders are extremely passionate (read: competitive... some have suggested elitist), would only raise the quality of competition.

Training Monday-

Most of the talk and work revolved around 200 meter TT sprint qualifying line.

Training Tuesday-

As above.

Wednesday, Day 1 of racing-Time Trials

Today was time trial day and proved to be the beginning of a big week for the group. It kicked off with outstanding performances by the women and 1 older rider then continued after a short break with many eye-opening performances. I can’t remember the actual order in which our riders took to the track but it was action from start to finish.

Sue Powell (40.980s), pressuring all competitors in division 3-4 with an opening ride that would hold up for a bronze, was supported by Kerry Knowler (with a 6 second PB and 5th place- 41.791s), and Terry Moore (in 11th less than 4 second from a medal- 44.469s) .

Vanessa Essam achieved a 2 second PB (44.703s) and placed 7th in a world class field which included multiple world champion, Michelle Crawford.

Jim Veal (38.275s) had to settle for silver behind the near-unbeatable Ron Boyle.

In div 4 men we had three starters and 3 PB’s (I think) and their placings were also good with Gary Aisbitt (53.786s) 5th, Mark Harris (55.628s) 8th and Anthony “Sluggo” O’Connor (58.407s) 11th.

Men division 3 saw four Tuggeranong entries and the start to the group’s gold rush. I (Michael Aisbitt) was lucky enough to put it all together for a win, whilst being ably supported by Bill Laing (53.892s, 8th), Neil Skipper (53.823s, 9th) and Allan Bontjer (58.9s, 12th).

Last but definitely not least was Gerry Elias. Gerry made the long trip to Tassie only to find that no other division 1 rider had made the effort. This left Gerry with no official rides in either Time Trial or Sprint events that he had entered. This was a great disappointment for Gerry and the group, but thanks must go to the officials for allowing him to ride for times in both disciplines. Gerry’s time of 1:15 was around the time he produce 2 weeks earlier in Sydney, but here in much cooler conditions.

Thursday, Day 2- Pursuits

Big things were expected from many riders today and most delivered. I’ll say from the outset that all riders that rode the pursuits were again (as for yesterdays TT’s) up against the weather which when cooler has a negative influence on performance. Considering these conditions it could be said that all entrants performed to, or above, their usual ability. So here’s how it went.

Jim once again medalled but this time with his maiden national championship gold!

Kerry went pedal for pedal with friend and reigning world pursuit champion, Megan Marsh. She only lost by a small margin and for a fresh trackie it was a top effort- 2:37.488 and 2:37.427. Terry looked totally in control during her 2:55.773 pursuit and I for one am eager to see the improvements in the near future- a great first up pursuit. Sue had a bit of a struggle in her pursuit with the dual attempt of racing 2km (2:57) and then to continue riding for a 3km time.

Vanessa slashed over 4 second from her time in NSW champs 2 weeks earlier- 2:53.031.

Neil (3:41.162) and the other div 3’s, Allan (4:09.38, I thought it was faster) and me (don’t ask the time), failed to qualify for finals.

Mark and Anthony achieved great times of 3:47.707 and 4:02.695 for the div 4 contingent.

Friday, day 3- Team sprint and bunch races (either scratch or point score)

Team events are always a fun thing to be involved with and today proved true. As I have already mentioned, there was issues with lack of division 1 competitors…SO, team spirit took over with a total reshuffle of the “regular” line-ups to allow for Gerry to have an official ride. A big team hug goes to Neil for stepping back from race duty- he was the second youngest. Oh yes, I forgot to mention that cumulative team age must be equal to or over 135 years! So what happened was that all teams rode admirably, finishing within about 1 second of each other in the qualifying round. Results were:

Team Harris, Laing and Bontjer 6th with 60.493 seconds.

Team Sluggo, Veal and Elias 8th with 61.319 seconds

The team of Gorrell, Aisbitt and Aisbitt was lucky to qualify for the bronze medal final (59.041s) after a team was DQ’ed for a rule infringement. Thereafter, like all good teams, they rose to the challenge improving approximately 1.5 seconds (57.78s) to claim the medal.

Bunch races = OMG!

Kerry just made them look silly in the final 1.5 laps. Riding on and then off the front of the lead pack to win by 3 lengths, this all after attacking from the start gun, then again at about half way. Terry stay in the pack for most of the race and claimed 5th place.

Neil stepped up for the 20 km point score after having done the noble team member thing and, after a ding dong battle, it came down to a 4 way race with 1 sprint to go. Neil managed to gain valuable points over the others to gain another national championship. Allan slogged it out all the way and seemed to be getting better through the distance. Me… DNF!

Division 4 would have to be the most competitive age and this race was the one to watch. From the start it was as if someone had thrown a hand grenade in to the bunch- bodies all over the track. Attack after attack, sprint after sprint- it was on. ACT resident Graeme Allbon, our own Mark Harris and Craig Taylor (Ipswich CC) went head to head for the entire 20km. They finished in that order, with 2nd, 3rd and 4th placing (Tony Unicomb, Sutherland) decided on the final sprint! Tony “Sluggo” fought to the end and having lost a few early laps settled into the small group of finishers. I can’t remember ever seeing him DNF!

Jim “Bling” Veal tried valiantly to wrestle gold away from his nemesis, Ron Boyle, but had to settle for silver, though he is cutting the gap- maybe next time Jim!

Finally, Vanessa stuck with the group until the final surge was unleased and powered home for 6th, despite running on only 50% lung function! Look out for her result next time!

Saturday, final day (sprints)

Yet another top day for the masters group, this time in the sprint event.

Sprint day is always a long, tense day of competition and this one was just the same. All masters rode well in qualifying and most advanced to the next stage of racing- the quarter finals. Jim, Bill, Kerry, Neil, Mark, Ray, Gary rode through the rounds. Allan and Anthony went straight into the minor placing run offs.

Jim once again met Ron in the race for gold with Ron again taking the victory. He is so determined to get a win over Ron and is already planning the assault. Jim in the gym!

Kerry, in her first sprint series, progressed to the gold medal run-off, and shocked her world champion opponent with hard and fast racing. Alas, inexperience and a slight lack of top speed saw her going down to Julie Barnett, but winning silver.

Bill led the way in division 3 qualifying in 2nd. Tactically Bill rode extremely well and all his hard work with the likes of Alex, Gerry, Gary, Kial and Danny showed. Unfortunately he failed to realise the potential of a few riders he faced and made his day on the track much more difficult than it should have been. In the end he succumbed to the event organiser, Justin McMullen, in the ride off for bronze. So close and yet so far! Bill will only improve from this racing and prove his ability. Neil and Allan placed 5th and 9th.

Division 4 had big numbers and fierce competition plus 4 ACT starters. Mark, Sluggo, Ray and Gary did the ACT proud placing 7th, 10th, 6th and 5th.

THANKS.

Once again a big thankyou must go out to Gerry for showing wonderful team spirit after the disappointment of next to no racing. Gerry pushed, held, and was mechanic and manager for many riders during the series and this assistance is extremely important for the smooth running of team activities.

Kate and Lyn (Mrs. Sluggo and Mrs. Bling- the “Food Fairies”) had volunteered to cater for the group during the week away, and I can honestly say that this made the championship series infinitely easier for the racers as food would magically appear both at the track and in our motel fridges. Food and cyclists… say n’more.

Derek assisted many riders through the pursuit series and was always there to discuss race strategy and lend invaluable experience to all. Thanks!!

Huge thanks must go to all supporters and groupies that made the trip to Tasmania. The ACT masters group are definitely the biggest, friendliest, approachable, noisiest and most supportive group of riders attending track races at present, plus had the most vocal fan club whilst over the Tasman.

Finally, thanks to the riders. It’s always a pleasure to travel, race and be in your company. What a brilliant group of people.

Summary.

The week of the National Masters Track cycling Championship was an excellent week of racing with outstanding performance by all. It was surprisingly relaxed in the running of the series which is a testament to the organiser, Justin.

Apology:

To anyone that I haven’t mentioned in the results! Not intended. You’ll get over it.

Michael

NSW track champs report 2009

2009-03-28T09:51:00.008+11:00

The Weekend..............What a weekend!.

14 riders
18 medals (heaps of other high places too)
83 races (approx)
Successful (and not so),
1 non starter – Steve… I had to shame you a bit.

The Riders.

Allan- PB’s, great fight and spirit, to quote Patches O’Hoolihan of “Dodgeball” fame… “you’ve gotta get mean, you’ve gotta get angry”.
Bill- a couple of medals, always improving, did you see his 2nd lap in the TS??? Yeah!!!
Gary- big solid weekend, 4th in the PURSUIT… What??,
Gerry- medals, crashes, races, crashes, timing, calling, crashes, what more could be said?
Jim- Bling, Bling, ching, ching. Cashed up again. He's back.
Kerry- L’animal, The Cannibal, look out world here she comes.
Mark- how many laps into the PS did he attacked? Was it 1?
Michael- good and crap (not even that good in the pursuit!!)
Neil- The Ironman, The Terrior, The Budgie (smuggler?), Bling the 3rd??
Ray- 12.?? seconds, Where did they pull that from?, you have begun to realise your potential, commit, don’t be dominated.
Simon C- you are a Trackie! Stop wasting your time with that road joke (and more importantly STOP running)!
Steve- DNSL
Sue- give us a G, give us a O, give us a L, give us a D, and she did!!! What does it spell “GOLD”
Vanessa- improve that start and you’ll be in the mix even more.
Terry- why not?????, see you in Tassie.

The Disciplines.

TT- Success, medals, the only gold!!!, improvements, PB’s (Neil?? 1st timer did you like that distance?)
Sprint- Successes, medals, improvements, no PB’s but it isn’t time for them.
Points/ Scratch- , medals, improvements, pain and suffering, please help me.. what do I do now?
Pursuit- Successes, medals, improvements, pain and suffering (that’s what it’s all about I suppose), as above for me again... help
Team sprint- Successes, medals, improvements, spiRit with a capital R for "are we great together or what".

TEAM SPRINT STOP PRESS>>>
“Team Aisbitt Finally Beaten… after 2 years of unprecedented success, Team Aisbitt, has finally been well and truly beaten. One good thing that came out of their demise was the fact that they were beaten by another Viking Cycling club team, thus, keeping the flag flying”J The team sprint was a great event that saw outstanding performances by the 3 teams.

These performances highlight both the group’s depth and preparation, with all teams riding for medals. With support and encouragement coming from everywhere in the form of Sue, Vanessa, Steve, Allan, Kerry, etc … we had won before we started.

Thanks to all for helping/supporting each other with all sorts of things:- Pushing, timing, checking, mechanics, sharing, caring, laughing, cheering, buying stuff, encouragement, commiserations… I haven't mentioned any of the external support crew (partners etc) but take all of this praise as yours too. What a great group of people. Michael

MACT CT Uniform (new design and order)!!!!

2009-02-25T22:43:00.007+11:00

Breaking news! New MACT CT uniform design is underway!
The new design will be totally distinctive - so will not be confused with any other Australian club or team.

Spectrum Graphics has the following design brief:
1) Use Vikings CC colours (+ others as designer sees fit)
2) Retain the Vikings logos;
3) Retro style design - in keeping with a 'Masters' team;
4) Use 'V' motif;
5) The only sponsors on the uniform will be Spectrum Graphics, MACT CT blogspot, and Green Grocer Goulburn (in recognition of past and future services);
6) AUSTRALIA around collar;
7) Designs required for gloves, long and short sleeves (arm warms will incorporate long sleeve design), shoe covers, cycling style cap, socks, bandana, and soft shell team street jacket.

Can people please email me expressions of interest for - please see web site: http://www.tineli.com/customcycleclothing.html
for the various options. I will put together a spreadsheet for the order. Hopefully we can get to 100 items and therefore achieve the cheapest price.
I would encourage all active MACT CT riders to consider ordering :
- shoe covers,
- 2 pairs of socks,
- cap,
- 2 short sleeve jersey (specify zip length, m/f cut),
- arm warmers,
- 2 bib knicks (specify m/f chamois shape),
- knee warmers,
- windtex vest,
- skinsuit (specify sleeve length + m/f chamois shape),
- gloves,
- soft shell casual jacket

See sizing charts: http://www.tineli.com/sizes.html

There will have to be some good co-ordination here. There still is a minimum order of 10 per garment, but within this 10 we can specify zip type (S/M/L) and M/F chamois.

Simon's story of the NSW Team Pursuit Championships

2009-02-19T11:27:00.013+11:00

On Saturday 14th of February three teams from Vikings/MACT wound their way down to the Dunc Gray velodrome (via the Grocers Bike shop and Cafe in Goulburn, which has become a traditional pilgrimage) to compete in the NSW Masters All Ages Club Team Pursuit Championships — an inelegant title for an otherwise beautiful event.

Part of the beauty was that one of the MACT teams emerged victorious, more of which later. But the main appeal stems from the fact that all teams have spent the past few years going down to this race, gradually improving both their style and their equipment such that they have transformed themselves from something like this...

Knobbly kneed collection of old fellas

to this...(pick the one who didn't want to be seen in an aero helmet!)

Lean mean (and kitted out) pursuiting machine

Make no mistake, this is not a race of pure grunt. It takes a lot of practice to master fine details such as working together to keep a smooth pace, swap turns smoothly without wasting energy, hold a wheel very closely etc etc. And despite all the practice we still managed to look a little shaky at times (although my tendency to look down at the speedo did contribute to that, I confess).

But when it all comes together, the sensation is pure exhilaration. Feeling the pace and the g-forces going through the corners as part of a well-oiled machine is pretty amazing.

On the night all three Vikings/MACT teams performed well. The first team of Simon Claringbold (Club Prez), Bill Laing, Steve Jones and Gary Aisbitt were setting a fast pace, right up until they caught the other team, whose lead rider swung up the track in the path of our riders not once, but twice, costing them a lot of time. Still they managed a pretty good time 3.42 for the 3000 metres.

The next team up, comprising Al Bontjer, Gerry Elias, Jim Veal and Anthony O'Connor (aka Sluggo) also rode well to post a time of 3:51 (1o seconds better than last year) after being caught by one of the faster teams (though Jim Veal seemed pretty determined to catch and pass them back again!)

Al leads them out while Jim's on third wheel, with his 'let me at 'em look.

The final team (who was ranked 8th on the night) consisted of Neil Skipper, Michael Aisbitt, Mark Harris and myself (Simon Niemeyer). The first three are all either, World (Mick) or former National Champs so we had a pretty classy team, but we had to do a pretty good time to make the finals. We'd figured we needed to put in a 3 minute 28 seconds 3000m to be in the running -- which works out at a riding pace of around 54-5 kph. Despite a few hiccups and an uneven pace due to jitters (I remember looking down at the speedo at the end of my first turn when our pace was over 58kph thinking we might be going a tad too fast). But we managed to hold it together for a time of 3:28.7, which was good enough to qualify us in second place and make the final for the Gold Medal ride off.

In the Gold Medal event we were pitched against the much fancied Bicisport team, which has traditionally cleaned up this whole event in the recent past. Bicisport is a top tier, cashed up team with a lot of classy riders, one of which is about to attempt a second go at the world hour record in our age group. Now, almost no-one thought we were going to beat this team (including, I must admit, myself) and this is what makes the victory even more special.

We started our run very well, though we may have gone out a tad too fast. We pulled ahead of Bicisport by half a second or so and held that for the first 1000m. In the second 1000m they worked their way back up until they passed us to gain a .3 second gap. This is where Neil Skipper, tenacious as ever, stepped up and put in a blinder over two laps to edge us back up toward the front. We were all starting to suffer by this point...I mean, check out this photo!...

... but we could smell victory and weren't about to give up.

When Neil pulled up Mick sensed that we needed to do something special to pluck victory away from the heretofore undisputed champs. So, with-teeth-so-gritted-I'm-amazed-he-didn't-get-lockjaw Mick wound the pace up even more as part of a sacrificial effort to drag the team up to the opposition. And this he did! Now spent, Mick swung up the track and yelled out "off" so that the three of us remaining knew that it was now up to us to keep it going for the last two laps.

The other team was starting to panic by this stage, maybe not being used to being put under pressure. They lost contact with the fourth rider and then, for a time, their third. (The time for the pursuit is taken from the rear wheel of the third rider, so you need them to stay in contact.)

The opposition gets the whiff of defeat.

I then tried to lift the pace even more, sensing that we weren't quite yet over the top of the other team enough to get the win. I gave it all I had, but when I swung up after a lap I realised the Mark had fallen back off my wheel ever so slightly and and had been pushing a fair bit of wind, giving it everything he had to stay in contact. (We've since realised from the photo's that Mark's 'wings out' position must have cost him some serious watts, making all this even more impressive.)

Check out the wings on this fella! You'd think forgoing the aero helmet was handicap enough!

Mark then went on to bring us home. When we crossed the line we heard two loud 'bang's in quick succession (indicating when the teams finished). So we knew it was close. It took two laps rolling around the circuit for us to realise that we'd won!! I swear it's the first time I'd ever punch the air and raised my arms in victory, but this one was particularly sweet. All of us were elated and we rolled around the track a few more times to soak it all in as we congratulated each other. The commissaires, usually quick to sweep riders off the track after their event, dropped officiousness in favour of a sense of occasion and gave us our moment of glory, congratulating us as we rode down the shute back into the centre of the track.

Ah, sweet victory.

More photos from Action Snaps and Ernie Smith here
Full results from the team pursuits and carnival.

The Vikings masters group was extremely competitive, had fun and were an approachable part of the community. The Vikings squad can be commended for riding well as a team in both the pursuits and the scratch and handicap races in the carnival.

NSW Team Pursuit Championships 2009

2009-02-16T12:08:00.007+11:00

Hi All,

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Simply an awesome, but seriously long, day!

All teams rode very professionally and with great skill. I believe, from what I saw, heard and read (researching previous results), that all the teams improved, and can continue do so in the future.

Support races were again dominated by the group, with some outstanding, selfless team work.

Some standouts for me, and there's quite a few:

Neil's 2 lapper in the final.
Mark- totally stepping up for the final (must have been the 96") then pumping everybody in the scratch race.
Simon "Mr Cool" Niemeyer's casual attitude and consistency ... and riding a 98"... WHAT!!
Steve Jones- now this guy is THE improver, LOOK OUT!! Hope to see you more on the track during the year. (Kerry is very welcome to just us too)
Simon Claringbold- another super improver, please keep in touch with the track as it will help your road riding too.
Allan "The Train"- leading out Bill in the scratch race and h'cap.
Jim- getting back in the groove. Steady, Steady, Softly, Softly.
Bill- A great night all round. Team pursuit, h'cap, scratch, fantastic. What a competitor!
Sluggo- always thinking about the money, doing "the job" and consistent effort in team pursuit. Good to see you back after tough times.
Gary- not mudding (himself), and keeping his cool (for a change) after a shocker whilst trying to pass the other team.
Gerry- great team pursuit and team spirit, and great pushing and support. Might have to work on the team calling though:-) Can't wait to see you at NSW individual champs (don't forget the team sprint).
Me- not passing out after qualifying.

The Vikings masters group was extremely competitive, had fun and were an approachable part of the community. Well done.
Thank you all so much for making the whole cycling experience fun and fulfilling for me (hang on, what am I saying? I was in big time pain). Let's keep it up, and improve on what we do.

Michael
ATTENTION! coming soon to a computer near you... Sydney Sunday Training plans; Team Sprint training, selection and qualifying; and National Championship preparation, plus much, much more.

2009-02-15T22:59:00.002+11:00

Truly awesome effort by all on Saturday 14th February.

Congratulations MACT CT Team 1 for an outstanding performance in winning the NSW Masters Team Pursuit Championship.

The ride to qualify second fastest was superb. Then to really pull out all stop in the face of adversity, to respond to the pressure of being nearly a second down, and to lift to come back and put even more pressure on the favored opposition, then to see the opposition crack, it was electric!

Let's see the photos!

What a great night!

Masters 2/3 Crit Re-Run

2009-02-06T00:57:00.001+11:00

To all masters men 2/3 - 2009 ACT Criterium Championships

Thursday, 5 February 2009

2009 ACT Criterium Championships – Stromlo Forest Park

To all masters men 2/3,

The event re run will be Thursday 19th February 09

Grade, Race length, Start time

5:45 WC club champs 25 mins + 2 laps

6:20 Masters 10 min warm up

6:30 Masters 2/3 Criterium Championships 30 mins + 3 laps

Registration from 5.45 pm racing starts at 6.30pm.

The course will be Stromlo Forest Park Criterium Circuit in a clockwise direction.

Entry Cost is $10.00 per rider,

Those riders who had entered previously will be provided a credit for this event.

Other Masters 2 / 3 riders may enter and participate.

You will need to show your 2009 membership and or proof of renewal

Peter GOUGH

M_0418_452_434

Cycling NSW Draft 2009 program out

2009-01-07T15:22:00.003+11:00

Cycling NSW Draft 2009 program out

For those who have not seen the draft program check it our here

http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/files/news/2008/nov/news974.htm

Notable races are:

Australian Masters Track Cycling Championships April 1st to 6th in Launceston
The Canberra Tour is back on for all you climbers, 1st to the 3rd of May
Cootamundra Haycarters in it's usual spot of the weekend of the 9th and 10th of May
NSW Masters Road and Criterium Championships at Eurobodallla on the 16th and 17th of May

Then there is a huge couple of months for Masters in October and November starting with:

Road and Crit Nationals here in Canberra
Sydney World Masters Games Road and Track
then UCI World Masters Track Cycling Championships at Dunc Grey

Update Jim's battered carcass from Jim

2008-11-07T18:09:00.000+11:00

Greetings All

At last I am starting to loosen up and feel a bit better. I think most of you know that the final tally was six broken ribs and a punctured lung. Anyway, the worst is now over and I’m starting to look at the bikes again. I am due back at the specialist (Mark Hurwitz) on 17 November. It will be at least two weeks before I can ride again, although I am allowed to do some easy spinning on the indoor trainer. Lyn has been absolutely amazing in the way she has cared for me, but it hasn’t been easy for her. As she said yesterday, we’re like a pair of old crocks! We are now trying to kick back and recharge the batteries.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all friends who have helped me through the last three weeks. During this rather emotional roller-coaster, your calls, messages, help and encouragement have been of immense value.

Cheers

Jim Veal

MACT CT Crit Teams for 2009 season

2008-10-26T19:39:00.002+11:00

Greeting MACT CT riders. I've had confirmation of the following MACT CT teams for the upcoming CCC Crit Series:
Masters ACT Cycling Team Criterium Teams 2009

MACT CT A-Team
1) Neil Skipper MMAS2*
2) Mark Harris MMAS4
3) Simon Niemeyer MMAS3
4) Sean Moran MMAS1
5) Brad Hetharia MMAS1
6) Simon Claringbold MMAS5
7) Ian Downing MMAS4
8) Graeme Allbon MMAS3
9) Jayson Carey-Brenton MMAS2

MACT CT B-Team
1) Andrew Mohr MMAS3
2) Jason Quayle MMAS3
3) Allan Bontjer MMAS3
4) Peter Harding MMAS4
5) Steve Jones MMAS3*
6) Paul Scherl MMAS2
7) Tony O’Connor MMAS3*
8) Francis Mossard MMAS3
9) Jason Hewerdine MMAS2
10) Chris Nolan MMAS3

MACT CT C-Team
1) Rico Fitch MMAS6
2) Ashley Sked MMAS5*
3) Bill Frost MMAS5*
4) Jim Veal MMAS7
5) Haydn Daw MMAS4
6) John Thorn MMAS6
7) Garry Rolfe MMAS3*
8) Michael Carr MMAS3
9) Andrew Peel MMAS2

MACT CT D-Team
1) Elton Ivers MMAS5
2) Heath Chester MMAS3*
3) Bob Harlow MMAS6
4) David New MMAS5

MACT CT E-Team
1) Paul Welsh MMAS4
2) Jeff Culnane MMAS8

MACT CT Womens B Development Team
1) Amanda Koerber
2) Danielle Winslow
3) Donna Smith

Riders marked * will have to present their CA license, or receipt of payment for, prior to racing their first criterium (they haven't yet raced a CA race run with the Rider Management System so their license details have not been recorded).

See people there on Wednesday. If Jim is asking if track training is on it should be too long before he's recovered and racing again.

Regards,
Simon Claringbold

Update on Jim from Lyn

2008-10-24T11:16:00.010+11:00

Jim is still in Liverpool Hospital. The tube into the lung was removed about 3pm this afternoon. An x-ray at 5pm showed that the lung had not fully re-inflated. They are giving it until 6am tomorrow, if not right the tube will have to go back in. They have put him to bed with the buzzer and the instructions buzz straight away if having difficulty breathing. So consequently he was a little down but doing lots of deep breathing. Jim really thought that he would be home by now, I am sure he is twitchy, bike withdrawals.

I thought the Worlds were great. The camaraderie is truly amazing. You all should be very proud!

Just watched Jim’s Points race, bikes everywhere, didn’t realise that 4 riders came down.

Jim and I have received wonderful support from so many people, both in Sydney and in Canberra. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone and ask that you pass on my thanks to those not on this mailing list. I certainly would not have been able to accompany Jim to hospital without you.

Thanks again

Lyn

Update from Tony

Hi everyone,

Just got off the phone from Jim, he is feeling heaps better today and is hoping to be released tomorrow. He was wondering if there was training on at the Bundadome on Sunday

Tony

Worlds 2008 Wrap Up

2008-10-20T23:03:00.004+11:00

Well it's all over for another year and what an excellent week it was for all (until the 60-64 yrs points race). Most (all?) riders performed better than last year and/or did PB's in timed events. The Vikings crew and associates all did themselves proud in the way they were presented, prepared, and performed.
During the last 6 months our group has done the hard yards- training, racing, sickness, injury, goodtime, winter, wind, 'bundahdome, DGV, crashes, PB's, shocker sessions... but it has been a great time with great memories, and great friendships.

Results Summary Time Trials

Jim VEAL Silver in 60-64 500 metre Time Trial speed 47.93kph Time 37.557
Laurence BUCHANAN in 50-54 500 metre Time Trial speed 45.00kph Time 40.000
Anton WURZER in 50-54 500 metre Time Trial speed 45.19kph Time 39.833
Gerard ELIAS in 30-34 1000 metre Time Trial speed 48.15kph Time 1:14.759
Neil SKIPPER in 35-39 1000 metre Time Trial speed 49.57kph Time 1:12.623
Michael AISBITT Gold in 40-44 750 metre Time Trial speed 54.49kph Time 49.550
Bill LAING 40-44 750 metre Time Trial speed 50.26kph Time 53.720
Gary AISBITT 45-49 750 metre Time Trial speed 50.02kph Time 53.980
Ray GORRELL 45-49 750 metre Time Trial speed 47.60kph Time 56.727

Results Summary Individual Pursuit Qualification

Jim VEAL in 60-64 2000 metre pursuit speed 46.34kph Time 2:35.371
Gerard ELIAS in 30-34 3000 metre pursuit speed 44.22kph Time 4:04.235
Neil SKIPPER in 35-39 3000 metre pursuit speed 47.58kph Time 3:46.990
Graeme ALLBON in 40-44 3000 metre pursuit speed 50.90kph Time 3:32.187
Mark HARRIS in 45-49 3000 metre pursuit speed 45.99kph Time 3:54.849

Results Summary Individual Pursuit Finals

Graeme ALLBON Silver in 40-44 3000 metre pursuit speed 50.17 kph Time 3:35.287
Jim VEAL Silver in 60-64 2000 metre pursuit speed 46.16kph Time 2:35.964

Results Summary Scratch Race Heats

Anthony O'CONNOR 9th in 40-45 5000 metre heat (qualified for final)
Graeme ALLBON 1st 40-45 5000 metre heat (qualified for final)
Neil SKIPPER 9th 35-39 5000 metre heat (qualified for final)
Mark HARRIS 45-49 5000 metre heat (qualified for final)

Results Summary Team Sprint Heats

Neil SKIPPER
Anthony O'CONNOR
Jim VEAL
Time of 53.478

Michael AISBITT
Gary AISBITT
Laurence BUCHANAN
Time of 50.811

Graeme ALLBON
Ray GORRELL
Anton WURZER
Time of 55.314

Results Summary Scratch Race Finals

Anthony O'CONNOR dnf in 40-44 1okm final
Graeme ALLBON 4th in 40-44 1okm final in 13'00
Neil SKIPPER 9th 35-39 10km in 12'16
Mark HARRIS 6th in 45-49 1okm final in 12'04
Jim VEAL Bronze in 60-64 5km final in 6'31

Results Summary Sprint Qualification

Anton WURZER in 50-54 speed 54.82kph Time 13.135
Jim VEAL BRONZE in 60-64 speed 57.41kph Time 12.541
Gerard ELIAS in 30-34 speed 58.78kph Time 12.250
Michael AISBITT GOLD in 40-44 speed 65.87kph Time 10.930 (World Record)
Bill LAING in 40-44 speed 61.58kph Time 11.693
Gary AISBITT in 45-49 speed 60.03kph Time 11.995

Results Summary Points Race Finals

Anthony O'CONNOR 10th in 40-44 2okm final in 25'31
Graeme ALLBON SILVER in 40-44 2okm final in 25'31
Neil SKIPPER 8th 35-39 30km in 38'31
Mark HARRIS BRONZE in 45-49 2okm final in 25'45
Jim VEAL dnf (crash) in 60-64 10km final

I'd like to think that after a small rest (or not) that we will all maintain the rage and that we will also expand in the numbers that prepare for upcoming races. It would be a wonderful sight to see more Canberra masters riders commit to improvement as you all have over the last few months.
Thanks,
Michael

World Masters Champs Report

2008-10-20T19:53:00.004+11:00

Report from Mark Phelan:

Michael Aisbitt doubles up in the Sprint and sets World Record in Qualifying

I was lucky enough to find my way with my family to Dunc Gray Velodrome in Sydney on Saturday night to take in some of the most exciting Track sprint racing I have witness for some time.

On offer was the Track Sprint finals in all age divisions at this years UCI World Masters Championship.

Centre stage for the ACT was Michael Aisbitt competing in the Gold medal best of 3 final in the 40-44 age division and the machine Jim Veal in the 60-64 age division riding for the Bronze medal. Just as exciting was some magic sprint racing in all the age divisions, these athletes really know how to compete, the skills and speed on display was mind blowing, the camaraderie and sportsmanship by nearly all of the competitors was something you had to witness.

It was exciting to enter Dunc Gray velodrome alive with spectators, a big and enthusiastic crowd ready and willing to vocalise their support had come out on a warm and balmy Sydney night. Trade Stalls enabled you to enter through a staggering display of the latest 2009 offerings from Techner, Hillbrick, the entire 2009 Zipp range, offerings from SRAM, Shimano and much more, every piece available to be picked up, played with and the experts on hand to explain everything.

Michael Asibitt was up against the very fast Anton Quist from the USA in the Gold Medal ride, Michael setting a WORLD RECORD in qualifying riding a blistering 10.930 second 200mtr, Anton was no slouch however posting a very quick 11.085 only 0.155 seconds slower setting up a close and tactical battle for the Gold medal.

Round 1 was interesting, Anton taking the lead from the start with Michael sizing him up looking for his weakness, at the bell it was Anton leading with Michael starting to run at his wheel, into the last corner and Michael was showing superior speed, easily riding up to Antons hip then drawing level only to be savagely flicked by Anton requiring Michael to back off and go again, unable to regain his speed Michael followed Anton to the line. Anton quickly finding himself in trouble with the officials and subsequently relegated for 'irregular movement to prevent his opponent from passing', the relegation handing Michael the win to go 1 up in the best of 3 final.

Round 2 and it was obvious Anton was not going to give the race away, nearly putting Michael on the deck in the first few meters and continuing on with what can only be described as aggressive riding for the next 2 laps. Michael however took it all and gave it back just as forcefully. Michael leading at the bell, down the back straight not much in it, then Michael turned on the afterburners, making his opponent look slow Michael rode clear to the line winning his second World Masters Championship in just a few days.

Jim Veal was just as exciting to watch, taking care of his opponent in 2 straight races winning the Bronze in the 60-64 age group and taking his medal tally to 4 with 2 Silver and 2 Bronze, Jim is just so strong in all areas on the track, be it Sprinting, Pursuit, Scratch race, 500mtrs, he has medalled in them all. Fantastic riding by Jim.

Mark Harris rode superbly on Sunday winning the Bronze medal in the 45-49 Points Race, in a tough and fast encounter Mark was one of 3 riders to lap the field late in the race, congratulations on an exceptionally strong ride.

What an exciting night of racing and I will be back next year to watch. Well done to Michael Aisbitt, dual 2009 World Masters Champion, Jim Veal multiple World Masters Championship medallist, Mark Harris Bronze Medallist in the Points and the dozen or so other ACT Masters competing at these World Masters Championships, you have all excelled and provided some excellent entertainment for a very appreciative crowd.

Regards

Mark

(Thanks Mark)

Sunday news brief

2008-10-19T21:27:00.002+11:00

Unfortunately Jim Veal was not able to medal in every event, as he was taken down in a crash. Injuries are yet to be determined, but he is in hospital in Sydney.

Mark Harris took out the bronze medal in the points race by bridging a large gap and taking a lap, gaining 2o points with three others

Graeme Allbon raced well and hard against a pro kieren racer to take a silver medal in the points race. Tony O'Connor battled hard and rode well in a race where the average speed was in excess of 50kph and was there in the end.

Neil Skipper raced well and gained some points in a hard elbow to elbow and elbow to fence battle. Neil finished 7th in the end.

Pics, movies and more details when they come to hand!

Saturday sprint results

2008-10-19T21:26:00.001+11:00

Michael Aisbitt wins world sprint championships and also sets a world record. This is Michaels 3rd world title two this year and one last year.

Jim Veal also came 3rd. Jim now has two silver and two bronze medals.

Gerry Elias sprints well, details to come. Bill Laing leaves the competition at the repocharge stage. I'll docement times and places when the details are published

Jim Veal's 500m TT from Ray

2008-10-19T21:14:00.001+11:00

Ray took a video of Jim's 500m TT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG_OfphRyPw

Here are some more snaps of Jim on the podium after his 500 mtr Time Trial
Silver.

Michael Aisbitt sets new world record for flying 200 meters 10.93 sec

2008-10-17T17:54:00.003+11:00

Michael Aisbitt sets new world record for flying 200 meters 10.93 sec

Friday news

2008-10-17T12:24:00.001+11:00

Jim did it again and climbed on to the podium to claim third.. It was an amazing effort as he spent the last three laps out in the wind to take third. Depending on how Jim goes in his remaining two events over the next three days he has a good chance of becoming the champion of champions.

Today and tomorrow is the Sprint. Us endurance riders will be sitting this event out.

Michael is a good chance in this event. He was world champion last year. Quite a few of us think he may set a world record for the 200m.

The rest of us rode well in the scratch races. We all had very close and fast races. Typical average speeds were approx 50 km/h covering the 10km in a little over 12min. It was handlebar to handlebar racing with knees and shoulders touching. When you come into the final lap it takes a certain skill to win. I will try and get places for everyone later today.

Jim Veal, 3rd place world scratch race championship

2008-10-16T19:58:00.002+11:00

Jim Veal, 3rd place world scratch race championship

Thursday night update

2008-10-16T19:17:00.000+11:00

We are now all resting up for the Scratch race finals that commence @ 6:30pm tonight. Jim will be up first approx 7:15pm. Then the rest of us follow. Last race approx 10:00pm.

Neil is not going to wear Australian Skinsuit. Look out for him in the MACT Skinsuit. I don't want the other riders to mark me and cover my moves. As the week has progressed I have become stronger. Stressed my right quad in the Team Sprint hope it is Ok later tonight.

Hopefully some more medals for the team later tonight.

Thursday News

2008-10-16T10:15:00.001+11:00

Neil Skipper, Tony O'Connor, Graeme Allbon, Mark Harris, Jim Veal all make finals to be run later tonight.

Jim, Tony & Neil to ride team Sprint at 1pm in MACT colours.

Ray Gorrell, Anton Wurzer, Grahame Allbon to Team up for Team Sprint.

Laurie BUCHANAN, Gary and Mike AISBITT make up the trio of ACT riders

Graeme Allbon wins silver in the World Pursuit Championships

2008-10-15T17:59:00.006+11:00

Graeme Allbon in ride off for Gold Medal in the World Pursuit Championships.

Graeme wins silver medal!

For live coverage and events already held point your browser to

http://www.cyclingmasters.tv/

Jim Veal in ride off for Gold Medal in 2000 meter Pursuit.

2008-10-15T11:44:00.003+11:00

Jim wins silver!

For live coverage and events already held point your browser to

http://www.cyclingmasters.tv/

Michael Aisbitt World Champion again. MMAS3 750 meter Time Trial

2008-10-14T22:26:00.004+11:00

Michael Aisbitt World Champion again. MMAS3 750 meter Time Trial

Jim Veal wins silver medal in 2008 World Masters

2008-10-14T14:53:00.003+11:00

Jim Veal Silver Medal (Male 60-64) in Worlds 500 Meter Track Dunc Grey in the time of 00:00:37.5

NSW Summer 2009 Racing Calendar is out

2008-10-08T11:33:00.002+11:00

The NSW Summer racing calendar is out, check
http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/files/calendars/2009/summer.htm

Allan's Report on a big weekend of racing

2008-09-22T13:59:00.004+10:00

On Friday I left for a big weekend of racing in Sydney, firstly off to RAW Friday night track racing

I subjected my self to Division 2, avoided a big crash and got a first place in the mystery race.

On Saturday I headed down to Heffron Park, Maroubra to race a long crit with the Randwick-Botany Club. It was hot and windy! My first day of racing this summer at 30 degrees plus, hung in there and finished with a second group behind the breakaway winners.

On Sunday I headed over to Eastern Creek to race the Southern Hemisphere Cup, hosted by the Waratah Veteran's Cycling club. I managed 5th place in B grade (full results here) in a fast and attacking race. It was great to race with a different bunch, with different dynamics and tactics.

MACT CT clothing order number 4 and Crit Teams

2008-09-08T21:57:00.005+10:00

Hi all MACT CT members.
First welcome to new members Gary Rolfe and John Thorn.

I'm calling for people to get their uniform requirements in for the next crit season. While we are working out the details for the crit team nominations it would be a good time to work out what you need clothing wise and what sort of MACT CT nomination you require.

We're hoping to have crit teams in most grades. Crit teams this season have no maximum number. It sounds like the main strategy for winning the teams comp this season will be 'flooding' as well as coming towards the front of the field.

No ACTCF nomination is required for wearing the MACT CT jersey in the CCC Crit series races, or any club race.

However, if you would like to represent the MACT CT in open races like the Canberra Tour, Australian, NSW, or ACT Masters Champs or any of the various country handicaps you'll need to be Vikings CC member and be nominated to the ACTCF as a MACT CT rider.

If you do want to ride opens and wear the MACT CT uniform, and are a Vikings member, let me know as I will be preparing the nomination request. At the moment there are no further qualifications for seeking MACT CT nomination, but if there is a flood of nomination requests further qualifications may be necessary. The reason I mention this is one ACT 'team' tried to nominate nearly 50 riders in their team. This nomination was rejected as the ACTCF argued they were nominating an entire training squad, and not what the ACTCF considered a team. I would guess the maximum allowable number of ACTCF nominated MACT CT riders would be 20. Given that we dont actually have 20 MACT CT riders going to opens, to date the number limitation has not been an issue.

Once I have clothing orders, I will canvas suppliers and work out the detailed pricing.
We have the designs for:
Jersey, B&B knicks, Windvest - please state size (XS, S, M, L, XL) and chamis type for knicks (M/F).
If would also be good to do cycling caps, socks, and gloves. Usually there is a minimum order size of 50 for these.

There will only be minor variations to the uniform, so there is no need to buy new uniforms if you already have the uniform.
Minor changes so far considered are:
1) Have the Viking head located on the sleeves both looking forward (currently the one on the left looks backwards);
2) Scaling the MACT CT writing on the side - so the writing is fully visible on the smaller sizes;
3) Replacing the ACTVCC web site address on the left sleeve with the MACT CT address;
4) Replacing the Continental/Rudy Project/Corima logos on the back with another sponsor/s.

Coota Annual and Coota Recovery

2008-09-02T14:26:00.004+10:00

At least there were some traditional hardmen who started despite the rain

http://picasaweb.google.com.au/MACTCycling/CootamundraAnnual120kmAugust2008

Hope to get some more photos, so let me know if anybody has more

The Coota Classic on Saturday 30th August as a blast. We had 3 car
loads of Masters go.
In the Saturday race a big bunch at 10:30 containing Paul Scherl,
Glenn Allan and myself kept up a really good tempo. Unfortunately I
blew on the rollers out of Harding with 30k to go. The 10:30 bunch
pushed on, held off scratch, caught the limit riders and cleaned up
many of the top 20 places, including 5th to MACT CT rider Paul Scherl.
In the end I hooked on to scratch as it came past and got a tow into
town in Neil and Simon Niemeyer's group, the last 10ks being in the
rain.

The recovery race was always going to be a tough event, the heavens
opened and the roads were wet. Due to my recent bout of flu I pulled
out at the starting line as did Paul, Glenn and Francios. The strong
block bunch seemed to be in the box seat and our money was on Neil in
the sprint if block was going to catch limit, and if they weren't,
then Allan Bontjer. Unfortunately all bets were off as both riders
punctured in the wet conditions.

In the end 3 riders rode of the front of Limit, one being Vikings
member Libby Adamson who came in 3rd after a tough race.

There was some discussion on the Vikings Forum about certain riders not starting, getting soft in their old age

Friday Night Track Racing

2008-08-12T15:36:00.005+10:00

Some nice pics thanks to Action Snaps

Wagga Races Event Report

2008-06-19T22:15:00.009+10:00

The Wagga Wagga cycling club sure turned out a fantastic 2 days of racing for June 9th and 10th.
Saturday saw 174 competitors lining up in their various handicap groups for the 116km circuit. The new course was quite hilly, with many bunches blowing apart on the biggest burg. If you were at the back of the bunch it was a free ticket off the back as Mark Harris found out to his surprise and cost. Mark and my bunch started with 40 but we were down to 15 after the burgs. We didn't catch the bunch in front until about 2/3 distance. After Junee with about 30km to go we caught a large bunch which included the limit markers. Things were looking good with the bunch still working, however with 3ks to go the scratch bunch towing what seemed to be the entire field steamed past. It seemed pointless to try to work through such a mass of cyclists, but a few of my bunch seemed to manage it.

If you can imagine 171 cyclists trying to get to these banners all at once, well that's what you had to sprint through! BTW, that's not grass on the verges, its a forest of ripe binbee eyes ready to puncture anything other than solid rubber!

Sunday's CBD Crits.
The CBD crit course was set up for exciting racing on roads around their central park. While Saturday's course favored the light climbers, the crit course was open and flat and would suit the big powerful riders.
The first MACTCT rider up was Al Bontjer in D grade. Al rode a smart race against stiff opposition. In the final sprint Canberra riders Trevor Rix and Miffy Galaway came in first and second with a strong finishing Al taking 3rd.

spot Al in the bunch

MACT CT riders Mark Harris and Simon Claringbold raced in the biggest crit field of the day, nearly 50 riders

3 wide around the right hander early in the race.
MACT CT's Mark Harris is the meat in the bike sandwich.

Later in the race, the pace is on. Rideshop-Brumby rider Brendan Savage leads Simon Claringbold through the right hander.

The average speed of the race was 43.5kms - not counting the last lap!

The pace was full on, fast wheels aplenty. The field dwindled to about 25 riders.

Just after the bell a 3 riders crashed including Ewan Williams, Saturday's 14th place, who's carbon fibre bike was now in 2 pieces. Riders and debris virtually blocked the course. My last speed reading was 46.5kmh, then it was full brakes and off, trying to save the bike. Result minor elbow grazes, but luckily the bike and Zipps got off even lighter - no visible damage. So unfortunately I missed seeing the sprint, no surprises in the results.

The A grade race was a very fast affair. MACT CT's Niel Skipper was with the bunch till the end with the sprint being taken by Canberra Drapac Porche rider Stuart Shaw.

The McDonalds Wagga Wagga races were impeccably organized and well supported by the local community. It was a breath of fresh air attending a real bike mecca over the two days and was a sharp contrast to the bad news cycling stories recently experienced in Sydney and Canberra (where car drivers had taken to road bunches). The Criterium presentation included a welcome address from Wagga Wagga's Mayor which made me feel that the cyclists were welcomed and valued in his city.

Put this one down in your calendar of must do events next year!

NSW Master Road and Crit Champs - Port Macquarie

2008-05-25T16:49:00.008+10:00

MACT CT riders enjoyed a fantastic weekend of racing flawlessly hosted by the Port Macquarie Cycling club. Saturday 17/5 saw the road race which consisted of a 17.5k loop of quiet undulating road done 4 times for MMAS4 and 5 times for each for MMAS2 and MMAS3.

In the MMAS4 race the pace was on from the start. The top of the hill on the way out was the KOM point for the first 2 laps. Fresh legs in the group saw frantic sprinting at the KOM point. Although the hard pace up the hills broke the MMAS4 bunch down, there were still about 8 strong riders at the end. Mark Stapleton seized the initiative with one K to go and rode away from the bunch for the win. I came in 4th in the ensuing sprint for 5th. In the MMAS3 race Simon Niemeyer rode a smart race to hold on to a fast bunch led by Graeme Albon for his 3rd successive NSW Masters road title, with legendary rider Eddie Sallas in 2nd and Simon finishing 6th. Neil Skipper seized the initiative in the MMAS2 race and rode a solo break taking the KOM and the win in fine style.

The criterium championships on Sunday were on Port Macquarie's demanding criterium circuit.
In the MMAS4 race I was able to get a bunch off the front and take the 10 minute prime. I repeated the attack to take the 20 minute prime and noticed Warren Bennet (Auburn Lidcome) in no mans land. I waited for Warren and we worked together for the next 15 minutes holding the remainder of the field off. Alas, Warren again showed his superior sprinting skills, in a repeat of last years road race finish, I was out sprinted by Warren and so got the silver.

The MMAS3 derby was the race of the day with MACT CT rider Simon Niemeyer going from the gun and managing to get out to over half a lap in front. Graeme Albon and Eddie Sallas played a waiting game. Simon managed to stay clear and win both the primes. At this time Graeme put the pressure down splintering the bunch with only Eddie managing to hold on. Between them they rode Simon down before he managed to join the lead break. With lapped riders being pulled out - one of the last to go was Al Bontjer, the race was down to only 6 riders. The chasing 3, which included Danny Hennesy, had little hope of catching the break. In the end that's how it finished with Graeme in for Gold, Eddie for Silver, and Simon's solo efforts rewarded with the Bronze.

Simon Niemeyer's solo:

The MMAS2 race resulted with the largest surviving field, with 10 riders clear, then 10 chasing.
The chase was interupted when a rider tore his clincher tyre off his rim coming down. Canberra's Glenn Allen (a MACT CT club criterums rider) was unfortunately on the fallers wheel and with no where to go also suffered a fall. Thankfully, Glenn's only physical injury was a slight graze, and yes, his bike was OK.
In the final sprint, Canberra based ADF rider Paul Connor was too strong and won the Gold by a couple of bike lengths, next in the sprint was Neil Skipper then Darren Smith from Koorang. The crit course's finish line is right on a kink to the right, and although Neil held a straight racing line to the apex of the kink, Darren protested that he had been impeded in the sprint. The sprinting rules state that the rider must stay parallel to the edge of the track so Neil was relagated to Bronze while Darren picked up the Silver.

The other notable Canberra performance was Michelle Clement from the Canberra Cycling Club who picked up bronze medals in both the WMAS3 road race and criterium. We have invited Michelle to join the MACT CT. We wait with bated breath to see if we can bolster our fledgling women's ranks.

Michelle at 2nd wheel:

Haycarters Weekend at Cootamundra

2008-05-13T13:40:00.006+10:00

We had a great turnout of 7 MACT CT riders for the Haycarters weekend at Cootamundra. The weather was a perfect 21 degrees C with very little wind.

On Saturday I was put in the 8 minute bunch with other MACT CT rider Simon Niemeyer. The bunch started well and rode a good tempo. Towards the middle of the 70k loop, the 8 minute bunch was caught by the 6 minute bunch.

The stronger riders from the 8 minute bunch continued working with the 6 minute bunch and we made good time to the Wallumbeen roundabout, with about 20 ks to go. During the rolling country of the next 10 ks we could see a big bunch in front of us and were actually closing. However, with fewer and fewer riders working our chase effectively stopped with 5ks to go. At two k's to go a small group of the riders broke clear of our bunch, but at this stage the combined front markers bunch was still 500 metres in front and there was no chance of a catch. A couple of the front bunch riders crashed coming into the final left left hander, destroying MACT CT rider Paul Scherl's chances with a pinch flat caused by a flying bicycle. The remnants of our bunch sprinted, with the winner of that sprint, Doug Steward of Team Quon, asking where to claim his place. I explained that as we had a sizable bunch in front, he wouldn't have to claim 35th place. It would more likley have been 75th place. I recorded an average of 44.4kmh for the 70ks.

After a very big meal at the RSL we fronted for Sunday's 80k 'recovery' race. I had been moved out one bunch closer to scratch - must have been my race face at the top of the hills - absolute relaxation of facial muscles belying havoc being reeked in the leg muscles. Anyway, one bunch back it was on from the start and I was wondering how I would make it up the hills at the increased intensity. The faster bunch was also smarter, easing intensity on the hills and keeping the bunch together with just about everyone driving. We were caught by the block+1 bunch just before the turnaround. I was able to keep going, again at an increased pace, missing a turn every now and then. We caught Simon Niemeyer's bunch and in the ensuing traffic Simon was forced off the road and suffered a punctured single. The rest of his race was in the photographer's car.
The block+1 bunch continued to power and managed to hold off block and scratch. We caught the front markers just after the last hill with less than 8 k's to go. There were a few moves at the front, with the big number 33 having the power to ride off the front with 2 ks to go. The sprint was huge with about 50 riders having a go. I rolled in behind the sprinting bunch which just missed a police car which had been parked in the left lane with 300 to go. I recorded a 44.6 kmh average for the 80 k's.

All in all a fantastic 2 days of racing well organised by the Cootamundra club, 281 entries and perfect cycling conditions. Great exposure for the MACT Cycling Team but no placings this year.

Ally Roche in the 20 lapper

2008-05-02T16:11:00.004+10:00

Masters Nationals 2008

I was hoping to get a whole bunch of files up quickly, but this took quite a while to upload. So I may need to stagger the uploads

Australian Masters Championships

2008-04-30T15:41:00.002+10:00

Congratulations to MACT CT riders who competed in the Austalian Masters Road and Track Championship.

Team members achieved some great results on the track including:
Ally Roche 5th in the WMAS12 2000m TT;
Neil Skipper 2nd -SILVER - in the MMAS2 30km points race;
Jim Veal 2nd - SILVER - in the MMAS7 5 lap Derby final;

This year we didn't feature in any podium finishes in the road events.

Up coming events:
May 3rd and 4th - ACTVCC Gunning Tour - good luck to MACT CT riders!

May 10th and 11th - Cootamundra handicap races;

May 17th and 18th - NSW Masters Criterium and Road Race Championships at Port Macquarie.

Stay turned for event reports.

MACT CT riders prominent!

2008-04-06T22:20:00.005+10:00

Congratulations to all MACT CT riders who managed a podium finish at the recent ACTCF criterium championships.

From the photos I see Jayson Brenton, Simon Niemeyer, Mark Harris, Jim Veal, Rico Fitch, and Ally Roche achieved podium finishes. Mark Harris's performance rates a mention as Mark managed a 3rd in the elite category - turning down the medal to remain eligible to compete in the MMAS4 category where he achieved the gold medal.

In todays CCC handicap at Uriarra homestead, there was a huge turnout of racers including no less than 8 MACT CT riders across the grades. The standout performance of the day belonged to Glenn Allen who started in a strong elite A grade field and managed to hold on for virtually the entire race distance to finish 5th in the huge field.

Thoughts now turn to the Australian Masters Championships starting in Sydney on the 17th (track) and 21st (road).

MACT CT Wind Vests are in!

2008-03-18T21:08:00.003+11:00

The Wind vests are in. Come and pick up your orders! They look good, nice windproof fabric in the MACT CT design, with a mesh back, black piping on the arm holes and torso hole.

All but 5 people have now paid. Happy for everyone to pick up their gear and for the 5 to pay on pick-up.

In addition I have 3 ACTVCC vests also available - these were over runs Ventou found during a stock take. I can sell these for $75 each, there is one small, one medium, and one large available. They are the same design as the MACT CT vest but have a ACTVCC logo rather than the MACT CT logo, and none of the MACT CT sponsors logos. Please register your interest if you want one of the ACTVCC vests.

Vikings End of Summer Season BBQ

2008-03-17T15:18:00.002+11:00

END OF SUMMER SEASON BBQ AND CELEBRATION

Come and celebrate a fantastic summer season of racing, hosted by the Vikings CC and the V-Mobile Squad. All welcome, particularly our junior riders and their mums and dads, our Masters riders, and of course our Novice riders. Put your feet up, mingle with your fellow cyclists, and enjoy the BBQ dinner provided.

When: Wednesday April 2nd

Time: from 5.15 pm til sunset (around 7pm)

Where: Black Mt Peninsula (access off Lady Denman Dr)

RSVP: by Friday March 28th, to Lyndsey.vivian@anu.edu.au. Please specify any dietary requirements!

MACT CT rider elected president of ACT Vets Cycle Club

2008-02-27T22:21:00.002+11:00

Congratulations to Glenn Allen who last night was elected president of the ACT Veterans Cycle Club.

Glenn and his wife Stacey are recent additions to the Canberra cycling scene. Glenn has raced regularly with the Vets, and also done many CA sanctioned races such as the 2007 NSW Masters Championships and some country handicaps. When not on his road bike, both Glenn and Stacey compete in MTB races. To be able to compete in these various disciplines Glenn holds AVCC, CA, and MTBA licenses. Glenn is planning a trip to Bathurst to compete in the NSW Masters Hill Climb Championships and the Bathurst to Blayney race (I hope to be there also).

I'm sure I speak for all MACT CT riders when I wish Glenn all the best in his new role.

Snippets from tonights crits. I got there just in time to race B grade, which had an average this week of 43.2kmh. It seemed a huge field. Al Bontjer was active near the front and was a good wheel to follow for the first half of the race. I got away with 6 with about 4 laps to go. Unfortunately the break riders were not focused in driving and were caught with and promptly swamped with 3 laps to go. Pete Harding come through most of the pack with a strong sprint at the finish but just missed out scoring some points.
The A grade field also looked huge, the race coming down to a sprint with Brumby-Rideshop rider James Medley taking the honours.

General happenings: Coaching, ACTVCC AGM

2008-02-25T22:02:00.002+11:00

1) how many MACT CT members would like to do the CA Cycle Skill and Coaching Level 1 courses?

There has been a lack of accredited racing cycle coaches in Vets racing.
If enough MACT CT members are interested the ACTCF will organise the course
for us to attend. Attendees can get a sponsorship from Vikings for half the course fees (assuming they are interested in doing some club level coaching).

2) One of our team members, Glenn Allen, is standing for president of the ACTVCC at tomorrow's ACTVCC AGM. I believe MACT CT members should give Glenn their support. If sufficient numbers are present at the AGM, a motion could be voted on to affiliate with CA next year.
However, CA affiliation would be a double edged sword. To remain in the MACT CT as it currently stands, team members would not be able to rejoin the ACTVCC - as CA members can only be members of one CA club and the MACT CT is formed under the Vikings CC. But if the ACTVCC was a CA club, then any rider with a CA masters license, eg MACT CT riders, could race with the ACTVCC (would MMAS1 riders be allowed to race?).

Obviously there is a lot of emotion, history, and plenty of issues, information and mis-information circulating around this contentious issue.

How big would the Gunning Tour get if it was a CA Masters event? If the NSW masters was anything to go on, for the male grades there'd be 50 riders a grade, times 8 grades = 400 riders!

Regards,

SSS

ACT Criterium Championships

2008-02-21T19:01:00.005+11:00

For those who hold an open licence here is an opportunity to compete in the ACT Criterium Championships.

Entry fee is $10 per rider
Registration is on the day from 5pm
Direction is clockwise
More information at the CCC Crit Info website

Wednesday 19 March

Warm up & Registration 17:00 to 17:30
Women: Elite & U19 30mins +3laps
Men: Elite, Mast 2, U23 & U19 40mins +3laps

Wednesday 26 March

Warm up & Registration 17:00 to 17:30
Masters: Women 3 - 7, Men 5 - 7+ 20mins +3 laps
Masters: Women 2 & Men 3 - 4 30mins +3 laps

Crits

2008-02-20T22:30:00.002+11:00

B grade average this week was 44.2. Great positioning by Allan Bontjer on the last lap saw him on Simon Claringbold's wheel, which was the 1st wheel coming into the last corner. The sprint was a bit too far for Al, who held on for a 6th place.
Brad Hetharia managed to get himself into a break in A grade and held on for a fine 6th.
Bill Laing, promoted to C grade this week after winning D last week, came in for a 3rd place.

News from Ventou is that they detected a production fault in the wind vests and are remaking our order. The rest of people's orders are awaiting collection. Please pick up your orders.

News of the week

2008-02-13T21:14:00.002+11:00

The 2008 Canberra Tour has been canceled!

Well we don't have to worry about the Coota w/e TdC clash anymore. Who's interested in forming a group/s to go to the Coota w/e?

Tonight's B grade criterium average speed was 44.7kmh. Not surprisingly, no breaks stuck for more than 1/2 of a lap and none stuck at all in the last 10 minutes.

NSW Winter Racing Calendar Finalised

2008-02-11T09:03:00.000+11:00

The NSW winter calendar for the 2008 season is now online.

http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/Files/Calendars/2008/Winter.htm

One contentious clash was the Cootamundra Haycarters Handicaps v the Canberra Tour. The time honoured Cootamundra Haycarters Weekend will go ahead as proposed on the 10th & 11th May 2008. At one stage it looked as though it may have had to give way to the Canberra Tour, but that was avoided .

Results From NSW Team Pursuit and Clarence St Cup

2008-02-05T16:01:00.000+11:00

NSW Club Team Pursuit
http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/Files/Races/2008/08015/08015.htm

Clarence Street Cyclery Cup
http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/Files/Races/2008/08016/08016.htm

Photos From NSW Team Pursuit and Clarence St Cup

2008-02-05T09:50:00.001+11:00

Australian Masters Championships

2008-02-04T14:59:00.000+11:00

Information regarding the dates, venues and running of the Australian Masters Championships in Sydney in April can be read at the following page.

http://www.nsw.cycling.org.au/Files/News/2008/Feb/News774.htm

CCC Crit Report 30 Jan 2008

2008-02-01T01:10:00.000+11:00

Photos by Greg Long can be found here

Men's B Grade report by David Shepherd stolen from CCC website

Today I was tempted not to race: I'm heading to NZ on Friday for a tough week of orienteering races, the BOM radar said rain was on the way and I could still feel yesterday's intervals in my legs... But the team leader "You Me and Dapre" talked me into it (our other team mate Handsome Pete was sitting out today's race due to work commitments). I figured it would be a chance to try something new - sit near the back of the field and don't chase down breaks (and don't try and get in a break), then get ourselves into a good position in the last few laps and see what happens. So I smashed a can of rice cream and a coke and rolled out to Stromlo, the wind picking up as every minute slowly ticked by. By the time I got to the track there was a pretty nasty breeze and I was even more happy about the idea of sitting in. I told Dapre I'd pull out if it started raining, and on the first lap we got a few drops - but what I say and what I do are not always correlated... We rolled around for a few laps, there were a number of breakaway attempts but the angle of the wind (headwind on the back straight and tail wind on the home straight) made it hard to get away and every break was quickly chased down. After maybe 10 minutes it started getting wet and I got nervous about being too far back in the bunch so started moving forward with Dapre on my wheel. This luckily coincided with the race organisers decision to shorten the race due and we rolled over the line close to the front passing the 3 laps to go sign. Late in the next lap one of the Quon riders jumped off the front and the bunch seemed happy to let him go.

With a lap to go I decided to try and pull him in, with Dapre on my wheel, I was also quite keen to get off the front of the bunch coming into the corners in the slippery track. After a few scary moments losing traction on my back wheel we hit the back straight and I was 2nd or 3rd wheel, so I attacked and Dapre and a MACT guy came with me. The MACT rider then attacked us but we stuck on him up the hill and we caught the leader at the top. I was feeling pretty spent already but a short rest on the MACT riders wheel and the sight of the finish line down the hill got me pumped for my first sprint finish. I stuck on the MACT riders wheel until Dapre went around me and jumped for the line, then I realized i might have enough left to get around him too. Expecting the bunch to come by at any moment the Token Products team pushed over the line to take 1st and 2nd. The main field seemed to get slowed down a lot in the slippery corners which helped us out a lot. After so many weeks of trying different tactics which we always got wrong, we finally had some success. its tough to beat the big teams but when the bunch stays together like it did this time its anybody's race really.

2008 NSW Road Calendar Version 1

2008-01-29T15:02:00.000+11:00

The Cycling NSW have released a draft 2008 road program.

The 2008 NSW Road Calendar Version 1 can be viewed as an excel spreadsheet here

Or, I have grabbed it and made a web version here

Goulburn Track Power Phase 2

2008-01-29T11:19:00.000+11:00

Credit to Darryl Fernance of the Goulburn post

TOP FIVE: In the Country Energy Men's Wheel Race on Friday night: the winner Neil Skipper from the Tuggeranong Vikings Cycle Club with his team-mate Andrew Mohr second, third Steve Marks from Wagga Wagga Cycling Club with Matthew Meisel-Dennis from Canberra fourth (right) and 17 year old rider Nathan Hart also from Canberra fifth. Making the presentation was Geoff Evans from Country Energy Goulburn and holding the banner were Erin Collins and Keisha Northey.

GOULBURN Cycle Club's Trackpower Carnival was wrapped up on Friday night in perfect track riding conditions.

The event, which was brought to an abrupt stop on Saturday January 12 was finally completed. Although some of the competitors were unable to make the journey back to Goulburn, many of the clubs like Central Coast, Southern Highlands, ACT, the Tuggeranong Vikings, Wagga Wagga and Bankstown were back to support the Goulburn Cycle Club.

The cooler evening presented riders with perfect racing conditions and the varied program provided spectators entertaining, exciting action.

Some crit racing photos Jan 16th

2008-01-18T23:13:00.000+11:00

Some Photos, credit to Greg Long
http://greglong.photostockplus.com/event_158761

John Coleman stringing out the peleton

Simon Claringbold stretches the peloton

Allan Bontjer hiding behind Quon rider Ulisses Da Silva
Peter Harding

Simon Claringbold

Masters ACT Team TTT quinela

2008-01-13T15:57:00.000+11:00

Masters ACT Cycling Teams finished 1st and 2nd in the TVCC TTT race today.

Team of Paul Scherl, Glenn Allen and Jason Quayle.

Team of Simon Niemeyer, Sean Moran and Simon Claringbold

Team of Paul Scherl, Glenn Allen and Jason Quayle.

The team of Simon Niemeyer, Sean Moran and Simon Claringbold finished 1st while the last minute team of Glenn Allen, Jason Quayle and Paul Scherl put in the hard yards on standard road bikes to finish 2nd.

Conditions were tough for the 40km event which ended up measuring closer to 45kms in length, with temperatures of around 35 degrees and a strong wind blowing.

MACT CT Clothing order 3

2008-01-05T18:25:00.000+11:00

Hi all MACT CT riders.
The 3rd MACT CT clothing order is about to go off to Ventou, our garment supplier. If you haven't already ordered and want to, please drop Simon Claringbold an email (simon@remove thisinforail.com.au ( remove the 'remove this' to get the valid email address.
Clothing to be ordered includes: skinsuits; race jerseys; B&B knicks, Meshback vests. Size range is XS, S, M, L, XL. Estimated cost will be $160 for a skinsuit; and $100 each for the other items.
Regards,

Tour of Bright Presentation photos

2007-12-11T22:31:00.000+11:00

Tour of Bright 2007 race report

2007-12-11T11:18:00.000+11:00

This was the 4th time I'd raced the Tour of Bright in the Masters4/5 category. I surprised myself with the result!
Stage 1, 108km Gaps Loop, going over the Cat 2 Rosewhite Gap, then the Cat 1 Towonga Gap. One guy from the Wagga club got away after the first sprint prime at 10ks. I managed to bridge across with one other guy, after about 4 attempts, usually any attempt was shut down by chasers. I kept encouraging the other 2 guys to put in and pretty soon we were out of sight from the main bunch, the country was really undulating. On the Rosewhite climb we left one guy behind, 2 of us, Robbo and myself, kept going up the Deuwa Valley, still out of sight from the bunch. The drone from the cicardas was deafening riding through the forest. On the Towonga climb the Robbo blew about 2 k's into the climb. I kept a steady tempo and made it to the top by myself, then made the rapid decent down. The flat final 5ks really killed my legs but I got the win, max KOM points and held the remanants of the bunch off by over a minute.
Stage 2, 16k ITT up Wandiligong valley. My legs were toasted from doing virtually a 50k TT in the mornings stage. I just kept the heart rate up and tried to keep pedalling circles with good cadence. I must have been going pretty well as I won the time trial and put another 30 seconds into the 2nd GC rider. Ray Jarrat was 2nd in the TT 17 seconds behind.
Stage 3, Bright to Mt Hotham. Man, what a climb! Up, up, and more up, and steep in places too. I realised I had a chance to get the Sprinters jersy, so I had a go at the sprint prime at 16ks. Guy Green had other ideas and won the sprint comfortably. I just held 3rd place, and leant enough to realise that contesting the next sprint would be a waste of time. In the second prime, at Harietville, I just sat on the back of the sprinting pack and watched Guy win his 3rd spint prime of the tour and assure his green jersey. The road then went up big time. Steve Morrow took an early flier and rode away - we could see the lead car up ahead through the trees. The 2nd GC rider, Paul from Albury and myself worked together to protect our positions. We had the entire field sitting on us at the bottom of the climb when one Steve, a climbing specialist, went away. The 3rd GC rider, Pete Knight an ex-elite level runner, started heading the climb at good tempo. After about 4 k's there was only 8 guys left in the pack and the climber up the road. In the middle 10k flatter section I started driving the bunch, but didn't want to expose myself to much to a counter attack which ended up coming from someone who was 20 minutes down on GC. But this stage we were on 'The Meg' which is 10.5%, the bunch was down to 5 with 2 guys away. There is a short downhill before CRB hill, another 10.5% section. I hurtled down the hill and got a really good run at CRB and passed the first of the away riders. CRB hill climbed into clouds, it was really surreal, I could just see the lead car and the last guy away, there were cars going no faster than the riders, and a line of riders, from various grades, all struggling in the clouds up this hill. By the top there was just the guy away and 3 of us. The road turned to gravel, hardly any visibility. Paul, the 2nd GC rider, just plunged to the line through the fog and stones to take 1st place, Steve, the lone climber just being pipped for being too careful on the stones. I got in for third place on the stage, as the 3rd GC rider, Pete, was also careful on the loose stuff.
I only lost 35 seconds on the climb so I managed to hang on to the GC win and also score enough points with a 4th and 3rd in the Hotham KOMs to snag the KOM jersey as well.
I'm ecstatic about the result, my 3rd Tour of Bright win. Partially because I didn't think my form was good enough this year, and I knew I'd be racing alone - no team mates this year. It was very satisfing that I got the mix of tactics, strength and endurance right. Mt Hotham must rate as one of the world's best road climbs.
Regards,
Simon Claringbold
MACT CT

John Woodman Memorial Wagga to Albury - Sunday 11 November 2007

2007-11-15T10:09:00.001+11:00

Andrew Mohr reports on the John Woodman Memorial Wagga to Albury - Sunday 11 November 2007

A 33 degrees day with a light cross/headwind greeted the 72 riders at the start of the 21st Annual John Woodman Memorial Wagga to Albury 135km Handicap. The race is named in honour of John Woodman, a talented Albury rider who turned professional in 1976, winning a number of NSW & Victorian titles in addition to riding in six Sun Tours. John was killed in October 1986 will training for the upcoming Sun Tour.

After receiving the letter of approval from the ACT Cycling Federation following the official registration of the team on the Tuesday before, I took the opportunity to debut the MACTCT kit in its first Open road race. I had drawn the second of four bunches, ten minutes behind limit & six minutes in front of block & another four minutes back to a strong scratch bunch containing Tim Decker (multiple world champion at the recent World Master Track Championships, winner of the 2007 Melbourne to Warrnambool & a previous winner of this race), Leigh Egan (another former winner & fastest time of this race), young Shepparton rider, Ricky Peoples & Brumby's Rideshop rider, John Forrest.

Right from the gun our bunch was well organised & rolling through steadily, mainly thanks to the efforts of local Albury rider John Guerin who combined his knowledge of the course with the willingness to offer advice, encouragement, & directions for the upcoming three & a half hours. With a further seven Albury riders in the bunch including eventual first female home, Deborah Fagg, cooperation levels were high & passenger levels surprisingly low. Brumby's Rideshop Canberra rider Baden Bourke, relishing the relatively flat course, also contributed significantly to the bunches efforts to catch the limit bunch. We started picking up dropped riders after 40km of steady riding but at the 70km neutral feed zone the reminants of the limit bunch still had two minutes on us & block had closed to within a minute. Another 10km's saw the limit riders reigned in, comprising mostly of the Rideshop womens team. Much to their credit they immediately began pulling turns however the experienced Albury riders had stopped rolling through as Block had made contact & were sitting on the back of the bunch. As the pace gradually slowed Block were forced to come to the front start contributing to bunch if there was any chance of holding off the strong scratch bunch. At Jinderra with 10kms still to race & facing the only significant climb of the day, the bunch started surging as the non climbers attempted to move to the front in an effort to maintain contact over the climb, as the fast 9km downhill run to the finish would make moving forward difficult. Surprisingly I grovelled over the climb in the top half dozen riders allowing me to maintain a decent position on the run into Albury. A tight roundabout 500 metres from the finish caused a slowing of the bunch which was enough for the leading three riders in scratch to make contact, making the decision of the block bunch to sit on earleir in the race a costly one, as, in a masterful display of riding, Tim Decker managed to thread his way through to take the bunch sprint before crashing over the finish line courtesy of an over zealous photographer. Albury rider Greg Featonby, who recently finished the Crocodile Trophy, claimed second place (& first local) & Kidson Cycles Simon Haworth claimed third. Gerard Walsh & Matthew Lucas picked up the minor placings. Deborah Fagg finished in the bunch to claim first female. I managed to just squeeze into the top ten by taking 9th.

An excellent run race over a relatively flat course with plenty of SES volunteers & support of the local police should see this race added to the race calendars of more cyclists. I, for one, will be back.

What's the hottest thing to hit the Vets cycling scene since the split from the ACF?

2007-11-09T15:43:00.001+11:00

The Masters ACT Cycling Team - that's what.

Where the vets in the know have a go at the ACF races.

First we had the MACT CT team launch. Then we had a MACT CT MMAS1 (male 30-34) rider win the Canberra Club B grade crit. Yes ACF allows both male and female 30-34 year old riders (how hetro is that?).

And now we have the MACT CT TEAM POSTER! (all suspects that made the launch included).

Which one is your pin up boy?

Get your laminated A4 sized copy from Simon Claringbold (folding donation required).

Oh, BTW, MACT CT jerseys and skinsuits are still available for prospective MACT CT riders. Matter of fact, buy one of the slinky MACT CT skinsuits and I'll give you a free poster!

Simon
simon@inforail.com.au

CCC Criterium Summer Series Round 1

2007-11-01T14:41:00.001+11:00

Some Pictures from Round One, courtesy of Greg Nelson, CCC Media Officer

Results

Results here
Team and individual points here

Average speeds

A Grade Men - 42.7 km/h (Dale Percival - Bike Culture)
B Grade Men - 43.3 km/h (Wes Garrett - Bike Culture)
D Grade Men - 39.8 km/h (Ben Long - V-Mobile)
E Grade Men - 36 km/h (Jason Brown - Bike Culture)

Photos from CCC Criterium Launch

2007-10-29T22:38:00.002+11:00

Masters ACT Cycling Team

Team Logo and Sponsors

RudyProject
Continental
Corima
Vikings CC
ACT Vets CC

CCC Criterium Launch and the Masters ACT Cycling Team

2007-10-25T15:50:00.000+10:00

Criterium Series and Teams Launch this Saturday - 10am Lennox Gardens (between the Hyatt Hotel Canberra and the lake)

It's going to be BIG. If there ANY chance that you will make ANY of the Wednesday evening criteriums it going to be worth making an appearance at the launch. Last year the photo of all the teams together at the launch made it into the CT's. Yes, the Bright Lights Electrical team were present!

It'd be great if we could have a huge MACT CT presence.
I will have all the team gear for collection - people don't HAVE to be in an actual MACT CT criterium team to purchase gear.

Please come and be immortalised in the MACT CT launch team photo - copies will be available and also on there be a MACT CT photo on display in the Rideshop (and possibly other bike shops).

There will be a bar-b-q at the launch. There is also a trophy for the 'Sharpest Team' which I'm hoping MACT CT will be in the running for - if we get people to show up !

Updated Masters ACT Cycling Team Criterium Teams

MACTCT RudyProject-A-Team

Neil Skipper MMAS2
Mark Harris MMAS4
Simon Niemeyer MMAS2
Sean Moran MMAS1
tba
tba

MACTCT Continental-B-Team

Andrew Mohr MMAS3
Simon Claringbold MMAS4
Brad Hetharia MMAS1
Allan Bontjer MMAS3
Simon Gallacher MMAS2
Steve Jones MMAS3

7. Peter Harding MMAS4 – Reserve – will join the team when vacancy occurs

MACTCT Corima-C-Team

Rico Fitch MMAS5
Ashley Sked MMAS5
Glenn Allen MMAS2
David New MMAS5
Jim Veal MMAS6
Haydn Daw MMAS4

7. Bill Frost MMAS5 – Reserve – will join the team when vacancy occurs

MACTCT Podium-D-Team

Bill Laing MMAS3
Bob Harlow MMAS6
tba
tba
tba
tba

Masters ACT Team Sprint lineup

2007-10-19T15:29:00.000+10:00

Mike Aisbett, Neil Skipper and Jim Veal lineup for the team sprint at the World Masters Track Championships 2007, Dunc Gray Velodrome, Sydney.

Photos courtesy of Lee Hopson

CCC Criterium Summer Series

2007-10-19T10:23:00.000+10:00

Please make it to the Criterium launch at 10am Saturday 27/10 at Nara Park (Lennox Gardens) EVEN if you’re not riding the crits!

I can bring uniforms if any are still available and people haven’t had a chance to pick them up.

Crit 1 Wednesday 31^st October
http://www.canberracyclingclub.org.au/ccc/pages/content.asp?IntPgId=18

Masters ACT Cycling Criterium Team Members

MACTCT Rudy Project-A-Team

Neil Skipper MMAS2
Mark Harris MMAS4
Simon Niemeyer MMAS2
Sean Moran ? MMAS1
tba
tba

MACTCT Continental-B-Team

Andrew Mohr MMAS3
Simon Claringbold MMAS4
Peter Harding MMAS4
Allan Bontjer MMAS3
Simon Gallacher MMAS2
Steve Jones MMAS3 (Crit races only)

MACTCT Corima-C-Team

Rico Fitch MMAS5
Ashley Sked MMAS5
Bill Frost MMAS5
David New MMAS4
Jim Veal MMAS6
Glenn Allen MMAS2

MACTCT Podium-D-Team

Bill Laing MMAS3
Bob Harlow MMAS5
tba
tba
tba
tba

*Gradings subject to confirmation by CCC Criterium organisers.

MACT CT riders NOT in the MACT CT criterium teams (but will be ACF registered)

Terry Moore WMAS4
Tony O’Connor MMAS3

Team Outfits:

Jersey $120
B&BKnicks $120
Skinsuit $175

2007 UCI Masters World Track Championships.

2007-09-22T22:42:00.000+10:00

Masters ACT cyclist will be competing in the Masters World Ch,pionships at Dunc Gray Velodrome.

More info here

Entries closing next Monday Afternoon for the 2007 UCI Masters World Track Championships.

Enter now!

Just a reminder that entries close next Monday at 4.00pm for the 2007 UCI Masters World Track Championships.

You can enter online at www.cyclingmasters.com.au

The Championships are the official UCI World Masters Track Championships for riders over 30 years of age. Riders are grouped into 5 year age categories for males, and 10 year age categories for females with each age competing over 5 individual disciplines including the time trial, sprint, pursuit, points race and scratch race. The men also compete in the Team Sprint. With over 50 World Masters Championship events over 6 days; the event is not to be missed!

Individual competitors pay only a single entry fee or a multiple event fee. For AUD $100 a competitor may enter as many events as they wish. A single event entry will cost AUD $75. Team events will attract a separate AUD $100 entry fee.

For more information, please see www.cyclingmasters.com.au

Masters ACT Team Clothing

2007-09-21T22:36:00.000+10:00

MACT CT is a group of Vet aged cyclists who are members of the TVCC and ACT Vets Cycle Club. One of the ideas behind the MACT CT to encourage ACT masters aged cyclists to join a group of like minded cyclists and complete in local ACF affiliated races as well as the famous country handicaps. Essentially, we are trying to get vets to 'out' themselves from riding soley within the strong ACT non-ACF masters scene and also experience and enjoy some of the ACF and ACF Masters specific events. The next ACF masters specific event coming up is the NSW Masters Championships in Port Macquarie on 30/9 and 1/10.

MACT CT now has a uniform which is in the process of being registered with the ACF. A limited number of uniforms are for sale to qualifying Vet aged riders. As the uniform run was quite mall, prices are more expensive than regular club gear.

MACT CT Race Jersey - $120ea sizes S,M,L
MACT CT B&B Knicks - $120ea sizes S,M,L
MACT CT Skinsuits - $175ea sizes S,M,L

MACT CT intends to nominate teams in the ever popular CCC Crit series. We are hoping to have enough numbers to nominate teams in D, C, B, and A grade. So there is ACF racing for a wide range of abilities.

Regards,

Simon Claringbold
MACT CT Uniforms Officer
simon@inforail.com.au

Welcome back to FNWTR

2007-07-24T12:59:00.000+10:00

Tony got a nice welcome back to FNWTR. Paul Craft got him some video time.

Check out the following on youtube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6KRoHFjs5H8

VIKINGS MASTERS WIN FOUR GOLD AT THE NSW MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS

2007-03-07T14:38:00.000+11:00

Vikings riders performed with great distinction at last weekend's NSW
Masters Track Cycling Championships at Dunc Gray Velodrome. Tony
O'Connor gives us this exciting report of the weekend's events:
"Jim Veal kicked off the proceedings by winning the MMAS6 500 mtr time
trial by over 1 second, going one better than his silver from last
year.

Neil Skipper surprised himself and the rest of our small team from
Tuggeranong by winning the bronze medal in the MMAS2 1000 mtr time
trial. Rumour now has it that he will be spending time in the gym this
winter to bulk up for the World Masters Track Champs to be held in
Sydney in October, now that he is confirmed kilo rider.
Saturday's program saw Jim once again perform with distinction by
winning the MMAS6 scratch race, hitting the front with 2 laps to go he
held on for a close win. Jim is now a big favourite for the National
titles to be held in Melbourne at the end of the month.
The MMAS 30k Pointscore was totally dominated by Neil Skipper who
comfortably beat the 2004 World Pointscore champion Jayson Austin.
Neil contested nearly every sprint to win by over 20 points, he is now
the hot favourite to win the National title.

The highlight of the weekend came when Ian Downing, Garry Aisbitt &
Michael Aisbitt won the final of the NSW Teams Sprint, a remarkable
result considering the lack of racing this trio had leading up to
this, just a pity they are not riding the nationals. Michaels last lap
effort against World Sprint Champion Geoff Stoker was remarkable.
Other club members Paul Miller & Anthony OConnor also rode well over
the weekend. Canberra club rider Andrew Mohr also rode well."

Tour of Bright event report - Simon Claringbold

2007-01-12T20:24:00.000+11:00

Tour of Bright event report

I can't believe it was just last week that I was racing in Bright. Now the place is surrounded by serious bushfires.
The Tour of Bright (TdB) is traditionally held on the first week of December. I have been racing the TdB for the last 3 year. In that time interest from other Canberra based cyclists has been increasing, as have the fields across all grades.

This year saw nearly 400 riders competing across 8 grades: 50 starters in A, 70 in B, 80 in C, 70 in Masters 2/3, 50 in Masters 4/5, 20 in Masters 6+, 15 in Women A and 25 in Women B. The TdB is the only 'proper' tour event for non-elite riders, and one of the few tours to thin grade numbers down by offering masters grades.

The racing is very European in style with long and challenging stages, a time trial, and a final crit. Time bonus are up for grabs on the non-time trial stages with intermediate sprints and KOM points for category climbs - of which there are 2 cat 1s, one cat 2 and one cat 3.

The first stage is called the Gaps Loop. For most grades is 105km and contains a cat 2 climb, Rosewhite Gap, and a cat 1 climb, Towonga Gap which is an 8 km climb.

As usual during the first stage there were a few attacks, the most persistent being a 3 man break that was caught at the top of Rosewhite Gap. I managed to get myself into a 4 man break at about the mid-point of the stage, and even pick up the sprint prime. We were still away at the start of the Towonga climb, by the top I found myself alone and hoping I could make it the 10k's, mostly downhill to the finish. However, by the time I'd got to the bottom of the Towanga decent I had been joined another rider, non other than the previous year's GC winner Ray Jarrat - who can also sprint! There way nothing else for it but to press home the advantage over the rest of the field and hope for a miracle at the end of the stage. No miracle, I was rolled in the sprint, but came up as tour leader by 3 seconds courtesy of the 6 second sprint prime I'd managed to burgal during the breakaway.

The second stage was a 15k ITT up an undulating valley road containing the small village of Wandiligong. My start time was 17:28 so I had 4 hours to recover and get the TT bike ready. To have any chance at staying on top of the GC I'd have to ride a perfect TT. During the first sprint prime of the day and the cat 2 climb I had been annihilated in the sprints - so the TT was the only way I could possible get some sort of defendable time advantage. I knew I'd done just about my best effort when, at the end of the TT I could hardly see, or breath. It had gone really well, I'd caught my 30 second man, minute man, and 1:30 man. They weren't going to be posting the results until late that night so I had to wait until the next morning to see what the story was.

Stage 3, well I got to the start line to find I'd won the TT by 4 seconds, had put 38 seconds on the next GC rider, but only 5 seconds on the 3rd placed TT rider, Charlie Bottero (now there's a cyclists name). I figured 41 seconds was at least a defenable lead so I wouldn't be trying anymore breakaways. Stage 3 is a real test, finishing at the Mt Buffalo Chalet after firstly a cat 3 climb, before the biggest climb of the tour, the 20k Mt Buffalo ascent. During the stage there were 2 sprint primes and the 2 KOM bonuses on offer. Just after the first sprint a break of 3 got away. This was actually good for me as the number 2 GC rider was still in the bunch with, most of the time, me sitting on his wheel. With 3 up the road I didn't have to worry about losing bonus seconds on the road to my main rival, but I did have to be careful the break didn't get too far ahead. Without any Director Sportif or radio this is just a matter of hoping the bunch would maintain some sort of speed. I was also helped by the fact that Mark Harris from Canberra was in the breakaway, and as Canberra riders, we would try to help each other. So I knew/hoped Mark would keep the break going just a bit, but once over the Cat 3 climb, well let's just say Mark doesn’t like big hills. So we're riding up Buffalo, the bunch is slowly whittling down, we catch the first person in the break, then Mark about a third of the way up. The pace is up and surging as the Victorians try to shell the last Canberra interloper (me), nearing the top we can see the last rider of the break, Bottero - climbing like his namesake Santiago, by the time we sprint for the KOM there's only 5 left in the bunch and one of those is shelled in the mad dash to the KOM point. I get piped for 3rd by half a wheel but I'm still in the group. Noone is interested in driving it for the last 2 k to the line, I don’t want to loose to much time to Bottero, but I can't expose myself to an attack from Jarratt, so I drive in till 1 k to go, waiting for the counter attack. It came in the form of the sprint to the line, Jarratt picked up 3rd and 10 bonus seconds along with his 8 second bonus for his 2nd in the KOM, I was 5th getting 9 bonus seconds for 5th and 4th. I also lost 5 seconds on the road due to being gapped in the sprint.

Stage 4 the 20 minutes criterium around the hospital. Well I had a 27 second lead, there were 32 bonus seconds on offer. There would be no tie, in the event of a tied GC time, the person finishing highest in the final stage gets it. The Victorians were going to gang up again, but I also had my secret weapon, non other than Mark Harris - a sprinter. All I had to do was not crash and not get gapped. The pace was on from go. The Victorians going berserk from the start. I was crowded out of the start and gapped immediately. This was going to be my second ITT of the weekend, I had 8 guys up the road and everyone else sitting on my wheel. Luckily Mark got off to a flyer with the first bunch, as I was frantically chasing I could see him looking back and sitting on. Thankfully just before the first prime the Victorians eased off slightly, by the time the sprint started I had closed the gap enough to get on just after it. Mark had chalked up a second in the prime edging Jarratt to third. In the next prime I let the sprinters fight it out, Mark chalked up another 2nd. I was confident I could hold on now, I just had to make sure I didn't get taken out. I finished with the bunch losing 12 seconds to Jarratt.

From Road

I was pretty sure I'd held onto it, but there was no official results until the presentation. I went with bated breath as they went through the various stages and grades. Then finally the GC presentation. I'd done it. I'd held on. And to top it off Mark had tied the competition for the sprinters jersey and won it based on his higher stage 4 finishing position. Jarratt had won the KOM jersey by 2 points. What a tight finish, each jersey going to a different competitor.

Masters ACT Cycling Team Clothing order

2006-12-03T22:54:00.000+11:00

We are about to order clothing for the MACT CT, at this stage we are only ordering Tops with a 3/4 zip, and Skinsuits.

Tops are priced at $95 and skinsuits will be $150, these prices are approx., but will only vary by a few dollars if at all. Payment does not have to be paid up front as our supplier will be billing the team.

Please contact Tony O'Connor ASAP as we would like to get any orders in the next week, tony.oconnor@dewr.gov.au or Mob 0412-868425 if you have any questions

Pictures of the skinsuits and shirts can be found at:

http://mactcycling.googlepages.com/MACT.gif

http://mactcycling.googlepages.com/MACT0.gif

Successful trip to Gosford carnival

2006-11-28T15:46:00.001+11:00

Masters ACT Cycling Team members, Neil Skipper and Anthony O'Connor (Sluggo), made the trip up to Gosford last Saturday for the Central Coast Cycling Clubs annual Track carnival. Upon arrival they noticed that had both been placed in B grade, pretty hard for a couple of old slow masters(this is an open carnival), considering there were 4 grades. Also noticed was the fact there was the prospect of 8 races (if all the finals were made), a hard nights racing was in store.

First race on the program was the B grade scratch race, with a large field of 22 riders, local officials don't seem to worry about large numbers on there big 460m track.

With 1 1/2 laps to go, Sluggo made a move from the back of the field and brought Skip to the front and jumped just before the bell was sounded, to launch Skip to a close win. Skips win also qualified him for the final of the wheelrace, which was handy as it meant 1 less race he had to ride.

Sluggo then rode well to win the first heat of the wheelrace, he only had to run in the first 7 to qualify, but decided to have a go for the win which paid off, as there was prizemoney for heat winners, always looking a dollar. Skip and Sluggo also both qualified for the final of the B grade Keirin final.

The final saw Skip sitting 5th wheel, and Sluggo propped in behind, Skip gave him a yell to follow and he took off at the bell. Sluggo in a brilliant tactical move decided Skip was going to early opted to sprint underneath but ran into a brick wall. Skip went onto to win by 5 metres.

Another interesting race on the program was something they had never seen before, a Handicap\Miss'n'Out race. A grade ride off scr, B grade 230mtrs and C grade 440mtr. This ended up being nearly a 30 lap race, basically A grade has to catch the rest before they are all eliminated, Skip ran 6th in his race and Sluggo ran 5th in his.

The wheelrace final saw a large field of 25 riders line up, Skip rode a great race to have the 'right wheel' at the bell but was just unable to come around the Dubbo rider Justin Fuller for a well earned 2nd place. He was a little dissappointed considering first prize was $500 cash plus a $600 set of Tacx rollers. Skip is making a habit of running 2nd in big wheelrace finals as he did just that in the Bankstown Wheelrace last summer at Dunc Gray Velodrome in Sydney.

Last program on the night was the A-B grade all in 25 lap scratch race, which saw a massive field of 38 riders face the starter. The pace was a cracker right from the offset, Skip used his head and sat midfield, while Sluggo with a rush of blood was up the front doing turns, until he 'blew' with 10 laps left to travel. Skip made a brave attempt to round up the field at he bell coming my almost last position, to get up to 5th but the big sprinters put him in his place and he ended up about 8th in another great ride. We had approx 40k's worth of track racing for the night.

Andrew Mohr of the Canbera Cycling Club and a Vets club member also rode the carnival, gaining more valuable experience and rode well throughout the carnival.

Next trip away for our team will the the Southern Highlands Carnival featuring the Bowral Cup Wheelrace on Dec 9, followed by the Bankstown Wheelrace carnival on Dec 16. Skip and Sluggo are then venturing over to race the Xmas Carnivals in Tasmania, which are regarded as the hardest track races in the world, with over $100,000 prizemoney on offer over the 6 days.

Tony O'Connor
Images courtesy of David Lane

Some Photos from the Wagga Track Carnival

2006-11-19T22:40:00.000+11:00

Ray Gorrell has been in contact with David Lane, there are a whole bunch of photos from the Wagga Carival at:

Track Racing

Photo courtesy of David Lane from ACTION SNAPS PHOTOGRAPHY

Two in a Row - 2006 Tour de Femme

2006-11-12T15:09:00.000+11:00

Two in a Row
by ACT Vets reporter
Canberra, Sunday 12 Nov 2006

Results from CCC website

In showery conditions the ACT Vets Team navigated a number of incidents on the slippery roads to take out the Team Trophy for the second year in a row. One incident claimed Kirsti Cummin and Ally Roche, but with a strong backup, those leaders were quickly replaced. Kirtsi suffered only minor grazing.

Competition was tough with a determined effort by the Bike Shed Team which include US professional Theresa Cliff-Ryan and local Champion Jessie McLean. The ACT Vets 'secret weapon" was the last minute signing of local Junior Champion Chloe Hosking. Vets Team Management said "that although this signing stretched finances to beaking point, it proved a winning move as Chloe was also outright winner in the 600 strong field. The presence of other Vets members along the course did a lot to keep the team encouraged and on-track for their prestigous victory".

Heather Allsopp, Mary Lovett, Elisabeth Mc Donald and Carol Stevenson all took individual honours in their respective age groups.

Tour De Femme 2006

CCC Crits - Week Two

2006-11-09T23:49:00.000+11:00

Some photos from the Canberra Cycling Club Crits - Week Two

Results can be found here

CCC Crits - 2006-07

CCC Crits - Week One

2006-11-03T16:56:00.000+11:00

Week one saw some good results from the Masters ACT cycling teams, blue and green

Results can be found here

Ian Downing came 5th in A grade, while both Graeme and Jonathan finished well. Simon Claringbold placed well in B grade. Andrew Mohr did the team proud in C grade after bridging a gap to join a breakaway, from my point of view the best ride of the night.

Ally Roche placed well lin good company, while Henry hung on well. Next week will see some more riders come back from sickness and other commitments. In the meantime a few of us are off to the Wagga 2 day track carnival

Brindabella Challenge 2006

2006-10-31T15:20:00.000+11:00

Brindabella Challenge 2006

www.brindabellachallenge.com.au

The 2006 Brindabella Challenge includes a road race on the afternoon of Saturday December 9th and a criterium on Sunday December 10th. All events are based at the brand new, purpose-built, Stromlo Park criterium circuit. There are three options for the road race:

* a 75km scratch race (the Cotter-Uriarra) for elite and A Grade club riders that goes via the Cotter, Tidbinbilla, Mt Macdonald and Uriarra Crossing.
* a 65km handicap race for women (the Capital Road Race) that goes out via Uriarra Crossing to Condor Creek, back via Uriarra Crossing and then Cotter Road.
* a 65km handicap race for men (the Capital Road Race) that follows the same course.

Entries are open to anyone who holds a cycling Australia licence. Day licences are available for anyone who does not hold a current licence but would like to try road racing.

Entries Now Open: here

The criteriums will all be run on the brand new, super-smooth, Stromlo ‘Bone’. Races will be run across a range of grades for all standards and will include specific races for women of all standards.

Masters ACT in CCC Crits

2006-10-30T11:16:00.000+11:00

Masters ACT Cycling will be represented with two teams in the CCC Summer Crit Season

CCC Crits 2006-07

Designs for shirts and skinsuits

2006-10-26T13:10:00.000+10:00

Neil has been working with Ventou and they have come up with a proposed design.

Check it out at

mactcycling.googlepages.com/mact.gif

2006-10-25T11:06:00.000+10:00

Hi All,

The CCC Crits are about to begin. Who is interested in joining me in a Masters Team?

Cheers

Neil Skipper
nskipper@membersequity.com.au

Wagga - Albury 19th November 2006

2006-10-17T17:25:00.000+10:00

Wagga - Albury 19th November 2006

The Wagga to Albury is being run this year as a Riverina race, as opposed to an open.

http://www.alburywodongacyclingclub.com/

Entry form on the website. Simply complete and and send to PO Box 3033 Albury NSW 2640, Entries are $20.00 per person, late entry fee applies after 12 November $50.00.

2006-10-17T17:22:00.000+10:00

Brindabella Challenge Information

The Brindabella Challenge, a series of cycling events in the Canberra region is on again this year,

Full Brindabella Challenge details are available from http://www.brindabellachallenge.com.au

2006-10-13T10:53:00.000+10:00

Masters ACT Cycling Team

Neil Skipper is arranging this team. The team is open to all ACT Vets members who wish to race ACF open and title events.

The idea is to take out a licence with the Vikings Club.

For further info or to express an interest in joining and buying a Masters ACT shirt and/or skin suit please contact me at allan.bontjer at gmail.com

Welcome to the Masters ACT Cycling Team diary

2006-10-12T18:00:00.000+10:00

The Masters ACT Cycling Team is being setup to allow ACT Vets Cycling Club riders ho wish to ride ACF events. This includes open and championship events.

Hi All,

Last night at the committee meeting the Vets Club agreed to provided a grant
of $500 to cover the set up costs of the jerseys. I have this morning given
the go ahead to Ventou to put it together.

I indicated that we want short sleeve road jerseys and skins suits.
Unfortunate they will cost a bit given the relative small numbers we will be
ordering but at least we don't need to put our hands in our pockets to cover
set up costs.

We are also planning the Social event of the year / Presentation Night for
last track season / Team Launch / Christmas Party function. More on this
later but it looks like being Sat 11th November.

With the track season about to commence I would also like to see what events
we may want to tackle. We can then pre book the Vikings Bus. Not the heap of
junk we had last time either. What I propose is trying to get some of their
mini buses that don't require a bus licence. Alternatively Simon Claringbold
now has a car the size of a mini bus with an engine the size of a truck. Ask
him about it next time you see him!

The first track open is in Wollongong the 28th Oct followed by the Sydney
Cup the following day at Tempe.

I don't know how people feel about these given how early they are.

What I do suggest is that we tackle the Wagga Track carnival the 4th / 5th
Nov $10k in prize money and according to Sluggo an excellent Carnival.

Please let everyone know that we have some progress and that everyone within
the Vets club is eligible to join the team.

Incidentally the NSW Track titles are on the beginning of March, Nationals
the end of March and Worlds in October 07.

Cheers

Neil Skipper