"With the racing season now underway, the Wheeler’s two world champions have been in action on local roads. Colin Lynch, who recently added the individual paralympic pursuit title – in a new record time - to his existing time trial title, swapped the warmth and glamour of Los Angeles for the March weather of Macclesfield and rode the Manchester and District Time Trial Association 10 mile events on the 10 and 17 March. These are traditionally held on the Twemlow-Chelford course. The legendary toughness of this course has been exacerbated by the damage to the road surface over the winter months. Lynch recorded times of 24.51 and 25.12 in the two events. Already selected to represent Ireland at this year’s Games, Lynch showed that his training was on course and he will be a serious contender for a medal. World Masters Champion Chris Higgs was also in action in the two events recording 27.19 and 27.18, the latter giving her second place in the ladies competition.
Steve Burke was the fastest Wheeler in both events showing that his move to the veteran category this year has not blunted his speed. He recorded 22.21 to take sixth place in the event on 10 March and 22.29 for tenth place on 17 March. Club veteran champion Roger Wrenn also returned to competition on 17 March after several weeks training in Spain and recorded 25.29. Matt Duck opened his account for the season in the same event with a very quick 24.35."
Could I start the season with my customary polite request for information on racing performances. I can only report what I am told and anything you can supply will be gratefully received. It is always useful to have details of weather conditions, course and personal bests, field placings etc. Remember this is one way in which we can keep the Wheelers in the public eye.
Could I also say a big thank you to Mick O'Connor for organising such a sucessful - and well disciplined - set of winter training rides. These have been as enjoyable as such things can be. Long may his benign reign continue.
