[Event Photographs][Event Video]
Photographs Kindly donated by Martin Maltby, Jamie Chester, Andrew Belk and Shaun Flannery © /sf-pictures.com
 

The action started on lap 1 with the dynamic Doncaster duo of Bradley Johnston & Ian Furniss already clear by 22secs as their tyres slowly erased the chalk finish line for the first time. The Donny boys continued to dangle precariously in front of the bunch and their lead reached a maximum of 38 secs at half distance. Several abortive attempts were made to cross the gap most disconcertingly a Doncaster Whs vest which was subsequently identified to be the attire of Stuart Axcell of GB Fire Service who had apparently forgotten his own vest. Fortunately the consequences on this occasion were minor unlike last week when attending a major industrial fire the Chief enquired "Stuart where's your hose....."

With 11 laps remaining the lead had reduced by 16secs on the previous lap to 22sces which had the judges white sticks quaking in nervous anticipation. Bradley responded by increasing his cadence and chewing his gum more tenaciously to repel any attempts to swell the numbers at the front. With 4 laps remaining, the leading group was now 4 strong and just behind everyone in the bunch was wanting a piece of the action including Paul Bell & Martin Wheeldon, which lulled the judges into a false sense of security. The leading group of 4 momentarily became 6 as the judges chinked their glasses and high fived. As the bell sounded, it was obvious that the top 15 were going to hit the finish in single file at 5 metre intervals.

Approaching the finish, for the first time in 22 laps the whole bunch were together. First man over the line was Damian Sharp of the West Yorkshire Police CC who obviously coped well with the tag of being the hot favourite courtesy of Jacko's prediction.

Well done to all the Donny boys, Martin 4th, Belly 7th, Fred 17th, the Harbonater, Jacko and Bradley & Big Ian for their outstanding effort. Also commiserations to Dave Furniss who punctured just as he was about to launch his race winning move....

With 3 laps remaining and with £10 left in the prime kitty, we decided we would announce a prime for the only lady competitor in recognition of her fine effort. As our giddy excitement reached fever pitch, we were stunned to see her turn off into the Pickburn Arms car park Almost as deflating as Dave's back tyre.

Before the prize presentation, Chairman Mr Sizzler Siddons presented Denise Dunn & Andy Hurst with proceeds of £1500 for the Firefly Cancer Awareness Fund raised by Doncaster Wheelers members on a recent ride to the Humber Bridge.

Finally, on behalf of the club, I would like to congratulate Steve Maltby on a successful first promotion and thank all the marshall's and helpers who endured our wonderful summer weather once again.

Sid Scoop