The riders of the velo were making up for lost time with an epic weekend of racing on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 May.

First up and getting the worst of conditions was Jon Graciano who took on a wet and windy SERRL race at Ardingly.

Despite claiming he “ran out if puff” on the last lap he finished strongly taking 6th place – winning a tube of Belgian toothpaste for his efforts!

Next up were Steve Smith and Rob Kennison who were doing battle in the vets league at Herne Hill Velodrome.

Despite both being a little ring rusty both put on a good show with Steve racing in the Bs and Rob the As.

Rob placed 3rd in the elimination race and won the 8 block handicap after a huge sprint and some chewing of the stem. In the final points race he took 3rd. He now is sitting 2nd in the league overall.

Steve raced strongly in all his events finishing 3rd in the scratch race.

On Sunday Rob headed for the British Masters Cycle Racing at Colchester Gateway circuit. He was competing in two 30 minute races (Covid regs).

It’s a new circuit flat with sweeping bends and windy.

Race one was fast and a couple of riders broke away with a couple of laps to go. Rob worked hard to hold a position at front for sprint. He placed 3rd, winning his age category.

Race two strung out more as the wind was stronger. Race one winner, Marco Coppola attacked with a lap and a half to go and again Rob had to work hard to get to the front for sprint. He was 2nd into final corner and just caught the winner at line with three riders within a wheel length and Rob placing 3rd again. He also won his category for a second time.