VCL Caleb #3 - A Race

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aruss
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VCL Caleb #3 - A Race

Post by aruss » Sun Apr 23, 2017 7:43 pm

The usual lovers of lactate and then some lined up for the third rendition of the ''all-rounders'' VCL course. We had a great Wheeler contingent for this one with Stephane, Eugene, Duncan, Nick, Isaac, Jackson, Maxim and Andrew. The first few laps started quick as the bunch pulled back an early Smart Savy break. Counters ensued like sweet berry wine throughout the middle portion of the race. Your Wheeler riders were always represented, one break of 8 having 4 of us in it. Not until the last 6 laps did the winning move establish with Emile (BSC), Lukas (Smart Savy), Jackson and Andrew making the split. Lukas lifted the pace over the front side of the course and unfortunately Jackson was not able to hold on. Shortly thereafter Riley (TS) and Jake (Smart Savy) bridged across. With SS numbers in the break as well as arguably the best sprinter in Riley, some trimming needed to be done for a Wheeler win. After a few missed pulls from Riley, Andrew let a gap open for him to close (think Sagan at Gent-Wev). Some indecision and a timely uppercut and Riley was detached. Our Wheelers chased hard when Riley bridged over, however when they saw him come back to the group they decided to let Andrew fight it out (edit: it was not known that SS had 2 riders in the break. Wheeler Director Sportif wanted.). Back to the break, down to 4 but with two SS riders. It became clear who the sheltered SS rider would be in the following laps. After a large pull by the SS peon into the bell lap climb, Andrew put in a healthy attack that shed him and gave equal representation. The shed SS rider stayed composed however and reconnected along the final back stretch when the cat/mouse began. Opening up for the sprint, Lukas took the win handily with Emile and Jake rounding the podium, Andrew to deal with wooden medal splinters. The Wheeler crew dictated the bunch over the closing laps with Nic, Duncan, Steph and Maxim rotating on the front. Isaac then lead out Eugene who took the bunch sprint and a 5th placing. Great team work again by the crew and as always some valuable experience to grow upon.

Next up: Race the Ridge Omnium April 29th-30th

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