The Royal Artillery cycling cohort in RSA Larkhill organised a great event.  The roads were closed to traffic and had been swept to within an inch of its life.  Having been a cold, damp start and not ideal racing conditions the afternoon brought some sunshine and conditions were perfect - so with the hay bales strategically placed the competition got underway. The race kicked off with the novice race and ladies race going together. 

The motorbikes lead them all out for their neutralised lap and then the racing really started.  It was a race that spread out very quickly, partly due to a sharp shower that lasted for 2 laps.  A group of 6 or 7 riders took advantage of the slower pace and managed to stay out front and hold off the rest of the bunch right up to the final lap.  These racers then launched their attacks and the race was eventually won by a guest rider from the Royal Marines. 

The Ladies and Novice race lined up and ready to go......

The second race of the afternoon was the A race and as with the novice race started out with their neutralised lap.  It was a shaky start with riders almost coming off at the rolling start but they held their line and managed to stay upright.  The race started with a blistering pace and soon broke into a leading pack with the main peloton chasing them down.  The average speed was 22mph throughout and it was clear that this was a pace that not everyone was comfortable with! The race then split into 3 or 4 groups with the main group staying out front for the whole of the race, even picking up speed on the bell.   

The blistering pace of the lead pack in the A race.....

The chasing pack worked well with riders from all the Regiments working to try and bring back the lead group.  However, this was not to be and the final sprint outside the Officer Mess came down to 47 Regt and 32 Regt. 

 A photo finish was needed with ‘Woody’ from 47 Regt RA taking the title by a tyre width with Roger Theron from 32 Regt RA taking second place.

The winning Trio.....

It was a great day for ‘Gunner’ sport and very well organised.  It shows, yet again, the true team spirit of the Royal Regiment. 

Well done to all!!

For more photos please see our gallery