Five Velo riders travelled to Suffolk to compete in the prestigious Mildenhall Rally Grass track events, which counted British Olympic superstars Victoria Pendleton, Laura Trott, Nicole Cooke and Jason Kenny amongst their previous riders, along with others who have gone on to achieve international recognition and success.
Safiya Smith was first up in the under 8s category, although in most of her events she was mixed in with other age groups. This, however did not phase her and she rode on to the podium by taking third place in the handicap race, holding off a number of older riders. She also competed in a number of freewheel and fixed wheel events and looked equally at home in both disciplines, a great achievement as she had not raced or ridden a track bike before this season.
The senior riders also achieved a podium place, although their main reason for travelling was to support Steve Smith in the National 400 metre grass track championships. In a race where starting position is all important Steve gallantly made his way to the semi finals so achieved the clubs second top ten finish in a senior national championships this season.
Rob Kennison, Matt Nunn and Phil Booth also rode in the senior field which consisted of over 30 riders, and with Steve they rode together in the team pursuit competition. After their 10 lap time trial in which Phil suffered a slow puncture, they rode well to claim a place in the final, although sadly they were beaten by CC Ashwell, an experienced team who have the benefit of their own grass track to train on.
Sporting as ever, the Medway team hold another team up for the start of their heat.
The event also saw the final round of the British Cycling Endurance series, which was run off in rainy conditions. Steve and Phil both managed to finish in the top fifteen, although the race was marred by a serious crash on the final lap which saw one rider hospitalised with a suspected broken pelvis. I’m sure all members and friends wish the injured riders well.
