The Wessex Cyclocross league is back! The first round was once again held at Clanfield for a hilly, tough and varied course. The course had a hard start, straight into an uphill section which led into some sweeping downhill bends before twisting round to go up the logs, onto some tight cornering, up the steps, over the hurdles before a tough off-camber section.

Jay Tarrant was the first New Forest rider to race. Despite a poor tyre choice resulting in some slips, Jay put in an excellent performance which included some impressive bunny hopping over the hurdles and riding the off-camber section. A strong effort to finish 4th.

Emma Shepherd was the women’s representation. A good start and some great riding (running) on the first couple of laps gave her plenty of space on the later laps and she had her best Wessex league result yet finishing 2nd in the seniors (8th overall).

Joe Shepherd was up last in the senior men. A good choice of side during the gridding meant Joe avoided the crashes off the start. A tough full hour race in the heat but Joe paced it well to keep the laps times consistent to finish 17th.

The next event is at Fairthorne Manor on the 8th September. If anyone wants to come along and see what cross is about or give it a go before the mud arrives, then entries are through British Cycling and will close 23:59 on Tuesday (see link below). The Wessex league is a very friendly league for all abilities and there’s plenty of chances to practice on the course before you race to get a feel for it.

https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/308633/Wessex-Cyclocross-League-Round-2—Fareham-Wheelers