Report: Kay Ball
Saturday 30th June saw the Maindy Flyers promoting the Welsh Schools Hard Track Championships for the 8th year in a row. The sun was booked well in advance, despite what the weathermen said!
For some of the more experienced riders, this was their last race meeting before heading to the British Cycling National Circuit Race Championships on 7th July. For some of the newer riders, this was their first taste of a full race meeting, with heats, reps, sprints and pursuits to deal with. Time to put in to practice the skills they have been learning.
There were some close calls in the pursuits with only 0.1sec separating Emily Haycox and Megan Chard in the Under 15 girl’s pursuit. This led to some exciting match Sprints between the two young ladies, catching everyone’s attention. The win and the championship eventually going to Emily. The Under 15 boy's sprint final was also watched intently by the younger riders. When the boys then turned on the speed and flew across the finish line there were gasps of awe from the whole group as Joe Holt took the win from Sam Rees.
In between the racing of course the most popular area of the inner track was the refreshments tent. A selection of fantastic home-made cakes and goodies provided by parents and friends and of course the inevitable hot dogs.
By the time the final bunch races commenced, there were parents, friends, family and bystanders on the fence cheering all the racers on, especially some of the younger ones, some of whom being only five years old. They still finished with smiles on their faces though, the sense of achievement obvious as was the pride of their parents.
When it came to the overall results the under 9 and under 11 boys proved to be very very close with the championship title having to come down to highest placing in the final race. The competition throughout the day had been fierce with positions changing after each event. However the titles were eventually won by James Codd in the Under 11 boys and Bevan Smith in the Under 9 boys.
The raffle as always caused a lot of excitement from the riders. Brand knew cycling helmets donated by Don Skene cycles, inner tubes, chain lubricant, and a few cuddly toys!
So another great day with fantastic racing and a fantastic atmosphere. Thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success. The future of cycling in Wales is looking pretty bright!!!
