On the first weekend in October a pantheon of SURC riders, young and old, will be at the start line for Glenn Longlands Downton 2-Day. The 3 stage race starts with a hill climb that lasts a little over four minutes, before a road race which is handicapped depending on the results from the mornings HC times. It is in this road race where bonds will be tested, alliances formed and watts increased until riders are rolling backwards wondering why they tried so hard earlier that day. Theres nowhere to hide in the rapid 28 mile course, as each group will vie to work together in the hope of making it to the sight of the line before any agreements are blown to bits up the final hill. Strength in the morning equals suffering in the afternoon, but the prestige of working with some of Hampshires biggest amateur racers in the scratch group is all the enticement that is needed to raise heart rates well past maximum in the hill climb. First thing Sunday morning the riders are separated by one minute each in a 23.2 mile sporting time trial that leaves no room for error, sore legs from the day before will be brutally awakened by passing minute men as the race of truth shakes up the GC before final placements are announced. The Downton 2-Day is a unique event, and those that have competed before know that as well as the top class racing, it is also accessible and friendly, providing talking points for years to come. Last year the field size reached 58, Glenns highest level of participation and with 52 already signed up this year, its looking like it will be full come October the 4th. At the moment 11 SURC riders have entered stretching from the enigmatic Dr. Brooks, to the fresh faced Henry Nelson. Years of experience and cycling know-how will be riding alongside youthful passion and drive, united by the brazen red and yellow of SURCs apparel . When the groups merge in the RR one thing will be certain, SURC will be there for the win. SURCs press department will catch up with each of the riders in the lead up to the race, expect conflict, revelation, determination and stories which contain as much truth as Oscar Pistorious defence testimony.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Sep 2014 21:23:31 +0000
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