Rapha Super Cross

Frank and supporters

CCH turned out in numbers for the finale of the Rapha Super Cross series at Alexandra Palace last Sunday 23rd of October. A beautiful autumn day combined with a demanding course and spectacular venue bode well for a great day of racing.

Artie crossing the finishing line.

In the first race of the day - the Under 10s -  Artie rode to a storming third place - a crash being the only thing that stopped him finishing higher.

Logan on his way to third

Frank and Logan were up next in the Under 12s with Logan gaining another podium place for CCH finishing third.

Andy taking a leap

Next up were Andy Harry and Neil in the seniors and veterans race with Bart riding at the same time in the juniors. The organisers really put the riders to the sword with the course rising up all the way to the palace- however just when you thought you had reached the top of the hill you had to dismount and carry your bike up a large flight of stairs. I'd love to say this got easier with each lap... it didn't.

Bart pushing on

Harry steps over the hurdles

Neil's horse impersonation

Following this was the elite race and the crowds had swelled to cheer them on - Paul Oldham the current National Champion won the race with Hope Technology being the winning team in the series. The large crowd included Hackney's two current National Champions - our own Keir Apperley arrived fresh from a 2nd place in the SERRL winter league - see previous post - and Norman Bright the current wearer of the over 70s jersey - see here for more info.

Norman and Keir - over 120 years worth of cycling expertise.

CCH were even represented in the Barista stakes with Rhys sorting out the java on the Rapha Mobile club stall.

Ned gunning it on the home straight.

Ned went well in the final race of the day that saw the Under16s/under 14s ride at the same time as novice adults. This event was a great crowd pleaser as the organisers had thrown in a rather nifty shortcut for those adults brave enough to take it. The Tequila shortcut cut out a 100m section of the course with a rather dodgy hairpin bend on an adverse camber. However in order to take the shortcut riders had to drink a shot of tequila. The fact that a set of hurdles awaited the riders just ahead made for a very entertaining finale, especially for those riders that had opted for the shortcut more than once.

Artie gets his prize for third place U10s.

Logan with cash in hand for third in U12s.

Full results to follow.
Finally not to be outdone in the excitement stakes the Sunday morning club ride almost had a similar incident to this dude - when Derek was nearly taken out by a leaping deer.