Rampage 2013 Round 1 Report

BY: SMBC Crew

Published: 2nd September, 2013

Round 1 of the new Banjo Cycles Rampage series got underway on Sunday with a record turnout of 138 entrants. What started out as 'mates racing' on the old Ratz course in Checkendon has grown into a really competitive series but keeping the fun low-key atmosphere from those early days.

The course was extended a little this year and allows lots of races to run at the same time as overtaking options are plenty. Cakes and a single big podium presentation helped make a great atmosphere in the arena despite the cheesy music from the iPod.

Chris Minter (pedalon) continued his excellent run of form this year with a comfortable win in the Elite race from Matt McDonald and a 'puncture-prone' Ade Lansley. Chris Lillywhite (Cycleworks) moved up from Open at the SouthernXC races to take the Expert race. Paul Lloyd (Rides on Air) lead from the off in the Masters race. Jason Emery (pedalon) came out of retirement for the Vets race. Will Taylor beat Oli Fenton (both South Downs Bikes) in the Youth category and Morgan Jones (Banjo) won the Sport race. David Pusey and Rob Jackson stayed together for the whole race in separate categories (Open and Grand Vet) with a sprint finish to win both categories.

In the Female races, Emily Iredale, Leona Kadir, Emma Bagnall, and Jan Barley all won as only entrants in their categories. The Open Female race saw four entrants with Andrea Meek beating her Birds on Bikes team mates. Kids races were well attended with Palmer Park Velo taking four out of the six wins.

Youth and Juvenile races were won by Patrick Christopher, Emily Wadsworth and Edward Gronbech.

Next round is on Sunday 22nd September, same time, same place, full results and more info at www.xcrampage.com

Photos courtesy of Kevin Sheldrake on flickr and Sports-alive

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