British Cycling

WOMENS INTERNATIONAL BEDFORD 2 DAY (May 25/26, 2002) (Results)
Sponsored by 3M UK Plc, Lee & Son Roofing, Sports Match
PICTURES BY LARRY HICKMOTT (larryhickmott@btopenworld.com)

It may not have been outside my front door this year (I moved and so did the race!) but it was certainly worth the drive to see an international field of Women tackle this British Cycling National Series (Reynolds), 3 stage, 2 day race. Riding over roads I knew well, I felt right at home and the riders too helped create a friendly 'family' atmosphere making it a great way to spend a weekend.

The winner, Frances Newstead, was the undoubted star, winning stages 1 and 2 and then showing she was in complete control on the final stage won by her GS Strada teammate Angela Hunter. On both days the women had to endure wind, rain and hail and look at the pictures from stage 3, and you will see what I mean by rain! It was worth getting wet for those pictures. But through it all, they took it in their stride. Great Britain and Powerbar rider, Rachael Heal always had time to show off that smile of hers (see the pictures if you need proof).

Others were equally helpful when it came to doing an interview and those will follow in the coming weeks.A great weekend where the TV media came to have a look at the racing. Thanks to the organisers too for putting it on -- glad I went! Here are more than 100 images from the two days.

STAGE 1
Won by Frances Newstead in a long solo break that laid the foundation for her winning overall.

STAGE 2
Relaxed at the start of the TT wearing yellow, Frances Newstead made it a clean sweep on day 1.

STAGE 3
RAIN! Okay, the sun did shine but when it rained, it poured and out of the gloom came Angela Hunter to win the final stage.

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