Compared to the racing conditions our College cyclists have become attuned to this season – namely wet and windy - the weather was beautiful in Taupo for the North Island Year 7 and 8 Road Cycling Champs. Conditions at the Taupo Motor Racing Circuit were reasonably warm, although a nasty westerly and a few showers did sweep through in the afternoon. No matter whether it was rain or shine, the College’s youngest cyclists were well prepared for competition and rode well. 

The event attracted 173 riders from 23 schools meaning big fields in all divisions but our cyclists certainly held their own with some fantastic placings. 

In the Year 8 Girls Team Time Trial, our team placed second to Baradene by just 16 seconds. This was an excellent result, especially as two our our riders are still in Year 7. 

The individual racing saw big fields of riders with very close racing. In the Year 7 Girls Road Race, Sophie De Vries took out 3rd place on the line in a photo finish, with Finn Bilsborough not far behind in 5th, both girls riding a tactically perfect race.  

In the Year 8 Girls' Road Race, there were just two seconds between 1st and 12th places! This was an exceedingly close race with Chloe Cox gaining 3rd equal and Sophie Spencer 10th. 

In the Year 7 Boys Road Race, Joe Kells gained 7th out of the biggest field of the day (40 riders) and was just four seconds behind the winner; a pleasing result as Joe is very new to cycling. In the Year 8 Road Race, Ben Connell narrowly missed backing up his 2015 title with his 2nd place in a photo-finish. 

Well done to all riders!

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