Monday, June 20, 2011

Tour of Toowoomba

The Tour of Toowoomba is the first National Series event for the team and it proved to be a big test for the team. The race was to include all of the best teams and riders and was no doubt going to be a hard race.

The wind was to ultimately going to play the biggest part in the tour, with over 40 km per hour cross winds slicing through the peleton.

Stage one was eventful with Taylor and Mat getting punctures and Mat getting sick late in the stage. Callum, Sam and Brendon finished in the fractured groups that formed, while Matt and Taylor struggled home.

Stage two included more incredible wind and fast racing to again cause havoc with the pelton, that again fractured into many groups. The final climb of more than 25% gradient, certainly tested the will of the team.

Stage three was set to be an easier affair with no wind or large climbs. However, after 20km Sam was involved in an horrific crash and had to abandon, while other team riders ended up in hospital. Sam looks to be not seriously injured and will hopefully be back soon.

The final stage was much welcomed and was an opportunity for redemption after tough weekend and lots of bad luck. Taylor and Brendon rode well to be up the front and showing off the team jersey infront of the great crowds.