Josh Thomson (front) won the A-B grade race in round 11. Photo: EMCC.
Welch Builders EMCC Summer Crit Series - Round 11
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As expected, numbers were down with 11 riders setting off in two groups with a trusty block headwind in the home straight.
A-B Grade
We welcomed back Aaron Mulkearns to EMCC racing as he was joined by Kevin Laffy, Harry Moller, Josh Thomson and Scott Moller stepping up to have a crack.
After some negative talk pre-race, Scott settled into the pace and looked likely to be part of putting his son Harry to the sword early in the race.
After 10 mins, Scott dropped back to the B-C group and the four remaining riders continued at a strong pace.
As the race wore on, Harry found the pace too hot while the front three of Aaron, Kevin and Josh wound up the pace.
Into the bell lap it was anyone's race, but with a strong burst down the back straight it was Josh Thomson the winner from Aaron in second and Kevin in third.
B-C Grade
Neil Thomson (front) made it a Thomson double wen he won the B-C grade race. Photo: EMCC.
Russell Jeffreys stepped up this week and was joined by Darren McKemmish, Clint Flanigan, Neil Thomson and Matt Dobeli while Zenon Gawronski was content to hang with the group as long as possible before a solo training ride.
With a very sedate start, it was Darren McKemmish who showed good form with some energy-sapping laps early that put Russ under pressure.
By midway, we approached Scotty Moller as he drifted back from his initial group.
As the bunch went past, Clint Flanigan surprised everyone by trying to help ride Scott onto the back, only to be ultimately dropped himself.
Mid-race it was Neil Thomson who was looking strong as he stretched the group, ultimately dropping Matt off the back with five minutes to go, leaving the three of Neil, Darren and Scott to contest the finish.
In a battle with two seasoned track riders, Dazza would have his work cut out.
As the bell sounded, it was Neil who blinked first as he took off and the race was over.
He rode on to a comfortable win over Scott in second and Dazza third.
Thanks to all those who helped set up and pack up, and thanks to race director Claire.
We'll see you all next Fri night - it's a long weekend and inspired by our own Will Kettle, EMCC's fine proponent of vintage-inspired Haute Couture cycling gear, it's time for retro round.
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