Davina Summers

Shipwreck Coast Classic (VIC State Road Race Champs)

Sunday 26^th October, 2009 1130am start

I had prepared for the Melbourne to Warrnambool for a few weeks now, but we decided a few days before that I would not compete. It was great to be a part of the team for the event however, supporting the guys where we could.  Following on from the Melbourne to Warrnambool, was this race, so we were all lining up (and the boys were backing up from the previous day of racing).

The women (with fresh pink ribbons attached to our helmets) were starting a few minutes behind the men for the out, loop and (almost) back course. It was right along the coast and there was not many places to hide from the wind today. There were 11 sprint spots over the course (which would make for an exciting race) plus the QOM. An early break got away post- sprint with 2 Prime Estate riders and RACE one. The riders were strong, but I was not convinced it would stay away in the wind, it was too strong, so I was patient. The break dangled out in front (between 30secs and 1 minute) for a good third of the race. The bunch got close a few times, then their lead would extend again as the roll through became disorganised. Finally they were caught; there was not much of a response as we were all well aware of the climbs coming up. The race broke up on the first few climbs, and smaller groups formed. We had a lead group of 5 that worked well together. Jo Hogan (Prime Estate) tried a few good moves early for the finish and Jenny Mac (RACE) the better sprinter on the day, finished strong and smart. Congrats to Chloe McConville (RACE) for taking the overall sprint title and I am pretty happy with the QOM (Queen of the Mountains) title- my aim for today.

 (Full) Results:

1                     Jenny MacPearson (RACE)

2                     Davina Summers (Plan B)

3                     Jo Hogan (Prime Estate)

4                     Chloe McConville (RACE)

5                     Stephanie McGrath

After a quick podium and race banter, the bikes were packed in the car park and we all piled into the 12 seater for the journey back to Perth, back to the sunshine. Special thanks to Ben Mercer for his support and guidance on this trip, and to the Plan B men- AJ, Brad and Elliot for ensuring there was never a dull moment.

October 27th, 2009 | Tags: Plan B Racing Team, Shipwreck Coast Classic, VIC State Road Race Champs | Category: Uncategorized | Subscribe to comments | Both comments and pings are currently closed