August 25/98 6:33 am - Midweek Results, B.C. News, Ireland Results

Posted by Editor on 08/25/98
 

Mississauga Midweek Series Results

NOVICE EVENT #16
DATE: August 24^th. 1998
DISTANCE: 35.2 KM CRITERIUM (16 laps), average speed : 35.49 kph

Although the riders were treated to a great display of lightning, the rain held off on this hot, dry evening and 21 competitors rolled around the first four laps at a veritable snail's pace. The heavy atmosphere and the very strong northwest wind had a lot to do with this, as did the organizers insrtuctiions to stay together for the first four laps.

The speed didn't pick up much until the first of a series of five primes was thrown in to stir things up. Alex Estavez, Racer Sportif took this easily and also crossed the line first in the next prime with five laps to go. Coaches Mike Ybanez and Jeff Archbold from Evian Mississauga and team leader Stirling McArthur, Re-My sport did a fine job of marshalling their respective teams' efforts and the bunch held together, despite a number of breakaway attempts.

Ybanez provided good leadouts for, first Walter Grabovac, Re-My Sport and then newcomer Anton Kopuliachev, Racer Sportif to take the next two sprints, with Alex Estavez, Racer Sportif taking the last of the primes at two laps to go. By now the pace was up to well over 40 kph and yet, the pack still hung together into the last lap. Even here, although the bunch spread out somewhat all but four of the starters had the same finishing time, with Kouliachev surprising everyone by winning handily from Veteran B, Dave Pinder, with Marshall Francis grabbing third spot.

Special mention should go to Tina Mayberry who was very active throughout the race and did much of the pulling. Thanks to our two rider coaches who have given up their rest day for several weeks to teach the novices many valuable riding skills.