Podium for Wyman as Field keeps improving

PODIUM FOR WYMAN AS FIELD KEEPS IMPROVING

Helen Wyman took another podium place this week with third in the Nacht van Woerden in Holland.

The British cyclo-cross champion was up against World champion Marianne Vos in the floodlit evening race, with Vos pulling clear of Wyman and second finisher, Sanne van Paassen, on the final lap

The Kona rider also finished third in the last GVA Trofee event in Namur, while victory in last month's Star Crossed in Seattle - another night race - gave Wyman a flying start to the new 'cross season.

The fast and dry course suited the front two down to the ground, with Wyman happy with both third spot and her prize, a round of Gouda. "I have never won a round of cheese before, so I have to be happy," she said afterwards. Men's winner, Sven Nys, also won a Gouda, in case you are wondering.

Wyman faces the brutal Koppenberg Cross on Sunday, with rain forecast for the weekend. "When we get some mud I'll be happy," she said. "But whatever the conditions, it's going to be tough."

Ian Field (Hargroves Cycles) was in action in the men's race, with a fine 15th spot, one place ahead of Johannes Sickmueller from Germany, winner of the last National Trophy round in Derby, which puts the Kentish man's performance in perspective.

Night-time 'cross is a rarity on UK soil, but with over 250 entries for the upcoming Halloween Cross at Herne Hill, Wyman's husband and manager Stefan gives the following advice to anyone racing in the dark for the first time: "You need to be a little bit more textbook. Take a wide line on the corners - any diving down the inside line tends to result in blue flashing lights!"

You have been warned.

Above: Wyman grasps her prize alongside world champion, Marianne Vos

MASTERS ON TOP OF THE WORLD

A small but strong contingent of British riders has been pulling in the medals at the World Masters track championships, held in Australia this week.

The opening day's competition at the Dunc Gray velodrome, Sydney, saw Geoff Cooke and Dave Le Grys win gold in their respective age groups for the 500m time trial, while Stephen Davies took bronze in his TT, as did Ivor Reid in the 750m event. The 34.450 recorded by Le Grys set a new World Best time for the 50-54 category.  

Davies was back again the following day, this time for gold in the pursuit, with Brian Dacey, Peter Ettles and Tim Lawson all taking pursuit bronze medals.

The Wednesday session saw Le Grys, Reid and Adam Roberts representing Britain in the '135 years and over' team sprint - don't be alarmed: 135 is the total minimum age of the trio. This time it was bronze for the GB men, with Australians filling the top two spots.

With three more days of competition remaining, hopes are high for more Brit medals.

SILVERSIDES ON THE MOVE

Britain's Emma Silversides, who rode this year with the Lotto-Belisol team is on the move and is set to join the Dutch team, RedSun.

Emma Johansson, the Olympic silver-medallist from the road race in Beijing will head the team.

"It's only its second year as a UCI team, but it has some great riders and I am really excited about joining them," commented the Briton.

You can read regular installments of Emma's blog here>>>

ROLLAPALUZA HALLOWEEN ‘CROSS A SELL OUT

In just over a week's time, Herne Hill will rock to an evening of Halloween-themed cyclo-cross entertainment.

With over 250 riders already entered, the senior and novice events are a sell out success although spaces still remain in the women's and vets categories.

There's plenty on offer for those not racing, with free roller-racing and a bar for spectators.

Event sponsors Tour de Ville are providing generous cash prizes as well as bringing along three Dutch ‘cross racers.

Judges will also be on hand to cast their expert eyes over the best fancy dress costumes.

For more details and to register, see www.rollapaluza.com/cross

BROMPTON FOUNDER HONOURED WITH DESIGN PRIZE

Andrew Ritchie, founder-inventor of the Brompton bicycle, was awarded last week with a Prince Philip Designers' Prize at Buckingham Palace, given annually to recognize a lifetime contribution to design.

Run by the Design Council, the Prize exists to draw attention to the importance of good design and to recognise the work of the most talented designers; it is the most prestigious award of its kind Britain.

Will Butler-Adams, Ritchie's successor as MD, said: "this award is well-deserved recognition for a man who has dedicated his life to the fine perfection of the folding bicycle.

"Over thirty years on from the first prototypes, and with over 175,000 Bromptons being enjoyed all over the world, he has now received this tremendous recognition for his life's work".