On Sunday the 12th September the Orange Cycle Club held a 52km handicap road race.
Riders from Orange, Bathurst and Nowra competed around the demanding Forest Reefs-Panuara course. Acknowledged by riders as the toughest local race circuit, competitors completed a race route that included Forest Reefs, Four Mile Creek, Panuara and return.
Overall winner on the day, riding off the 11 minute mark was noted hill climbing specialist Brian Kennelly who finished in overall first position in a time of 1:49:09. Brian can expect to incur the wrath of the handicapper in his next race start.
In second position was the hard riding Mick Cain. With scant regard to racing etiquette, and in true Mick Cain style he moved early, relentlessly attacking his fellow 7minute marker Mason Manwarring, eventually being able to ride clear after a long battle.
Mason Manwarring on what is deemed to be his home circuit, recovered to complete a great ride to wrap up the final podium position.
Hard luck story for the day belonged to scratch markers Owen McPhillamy and Micheal Troy. After setting a cracking pace Owen was forced to retire due to illness. Forced to go alone, Michael set about catching 4minute markers Andrew Foxall and Grant Roe which he achieved at the summit of the climb from Four Mile Creek. On track to set the fastest time and achieve overall line honours Michael was unable to maintain the pace, succumbing to hunger flat and cramp on the long climb out of Flyers Creek.
Overall fastest time honours on the day went to the wily veteran Mick Cain who completed the race in a time of 1:48:08.
The club would like to thank all volunteers who assisted to ensure the smooth running of this event.
