Tony Gibb will start as red-hot favourite for the Wally Gimber road race held in Tenterden, Kent, this Sunday. Having won the race on three previous occasions and whilst attempting a weekend double with a potential fourth win at the Soens race at Aintree (see story above), the Ploughman Craven rider from north London will fancy his chances. With a strong seven-man team riding, they should have the strength-in-depth to deliver Gibb to the line in good shape. Simon Gaywood or new recruit Neil Coleman will be ready to deputise should things not work out for Gibb.
Rapha ? Condor ? Recycling have not entered the event, organised by Dulwich Paragon, so there will be no repeat of the nail-biting finish to last years rain-soaked race when Gibb edged out Dean Downing on the line.
AW Cycles also field seven riders in the battle for the £100 first prize. Gary Dodd and the Sigma Sport squad should be in with a shout and the Arctic RT will be hoping to carry over their form after a successful winter of cyclo-cross.
The 63-mile early-season test finishes on the climb at Woodchurch Road in Tenterden and it looks like the rain will hold off for riders and spectators alike, so that will be a top spot for watching the race unfold. The bunch will roll out of Homewood School at midday.
Previous winners of the Dulwich Primavera include a certain Bradley Wiggins in 2001. Statistically, riders called Dave are most likely to cross the line first ? seven victories, including a purple patch of four in a row in the 70?s ? so good luck to Norwood Paragon?s David Kennett, who will be flying the flag for Daves everywhere.
