21 May 2024 – P841r results

At one point I thought it wouldn’t happen, rain clouds were forming off the coast and moving inland – fortunately, all we had was a little damp in the air and no rain. Of course, with the inclement weather all around, we had a cool evening with no sunshine but fortunately no wind either.

A dozen riders signed on, ready to test themselves against the conditions and course. The timekeepers readied their watches and we all lined up.

The lack of wind made a big difference – last week we had a strong headwind on the way out which slowed everything down and encouraged more power on that first leg. This week we could pace ourselves just against the course, using the slight undulations of the course to gain that extra speed. The turn can never come soon enough, but although there was no tailwind to assist we quicky return to the tree lined section which shelters us from most of the weather anyway. Carefully does it on the return leg, passing the old finish spot for P841 there is still a mile and a half to go, so you need to keep that power going. Through Funtington is great as it marks the last bit of effort before the sprint for the finish, of course, the key is to time that last bit of power to maximum effect.

Anyway, the cool but windless conditions certainly suited some riders – with at least 2 getting (course) PBs. Well done to them and Mike Cooper for taking line honours.

Thanks must go to the timekeepers, officials & caterers for putting on yet another great evening & we’ll see you all for next weeks 2up!