This years East Mids Cyclo-Cross Champs were held later than usual due to issues around securing a suitable venue and were finally held at the regular Lincs league venue at Bardney. With riders from the regions 3 leagues Linc’s, Notts & Derby and Leics taking part, its always a very competitive event. After heavy rain the day before, heavy mud was expected but conditions were reasonably dry however a very strong cold wind made it tough going for riders and even worse for spectators with very little shelter on the open course.

First up were the youth riders on a shortened version of the course with Derby Mercury riders taking a 1-2 and Sam Howes (Sleaford Whs) 3rd.

The Veterans were on the full course, including a short section on top of the banks of the river Witham directly into the freezing wind and they were soon scattered around the 10 minute circuit. The over 40s set of first and James Moore (Welland Valley CC) was never headed, to win by 40 seconds with Sean East (Witham Whs) in 25th. In the over 50-60s Simon Cocker (Witham Whs) made a good start and rode a consistent race to finish 4th in the over 60s category.

In a small senior field professional Graham Briggs was never troubled, in the absence of regular winner George Thompson (Sleaford Whs),  finishing over 3.1/2 minutes in front of second placed David Earth (Steve Poole Plant Hire)

Julie Clark (Witham Whs) rode in the womens race which included several quality riders with Xan Crees Team Empella taking the overall victory with Julie a respectable 11th overall and 4th veteran with the very windy conditions making it a tough event for the lighter riders.