A chilly NE wind wasn’t welcome on the start line, but was in a relatively helpful direction for the course. However, the temperature without the wind chill was comfortable for racing once competitors were under way. Traffic was at relatively high levels for later riders due to classic cars heading to Beaulieu; something that the NFCC normally tries to avoid when planning events, but the 9.30am start to this new classic car event this year meant that most riders were under way in time. Only one rider was seen to be inconvenienced by a poorly driven horse box.

Amongst the largest field seen recently in an NFCC open, quite a few riders decided to opt for road bikes, and there was a good entry of Youth/Junior riders in both male and female categories.

There were a few mad dashes to the line, with riders only just making their start in spite of the holding bays to keep riders ‘socially distanced’. Number 80 Harry Johnson arrived at the start with no rear light, but avoided a disqualification, as returning rider Junda Niu was able to lend his light.

Some good times posted for the sporting course, with Tom Day winning in 19.36 and a number of 21 minute times recorded, and a fast medium 22 in the women’s field.

Many riders left with thanks and positive comments, making the event organised by first timer Aron Kelly and the NFCC volunteers a success.