For the first time in recent memory cycling joins the varsity program, with a classic hill climb up Belmont. A cold but clear morning saw a strong field from both cycling clubs.
UWECC's Baz Lewis was first off, setting a blistering pace in the chilly morning air and coming in at 03:28, a very tough time to beat. As the day progressed UWECC and UOBCC riders continued to put in good times, but none were good enough to knock Baz out of the hotseat, despite the huge efforts evident from the gurns across the line.
UWECC's Baz Lewis was first off, setting a blistering pace in the chilly morning air and coming in at 03:28, a very tough time to beat. As the day progressed UWECC and UOBCC riders continued to put in good times, but none were good enough to knock Baz out of the hotseat, despite the huge efforts evident from the gurns across the line.
Third degree gurns
Meanwhile in the ladies standings there was an incredibly close battle, with Josie Rawes (UOBCC) narrowly beating Hannah Thorne (UWECC) with times of 04:50 and 04:52 respectively, fantastic rides from both.
As the tail end of the field approached UOBCC's hopes for the top step on the podium lay on Andrew 'PA' Kirby's shoulders. However, he could not quite live up to his hill climb form from October, settling for second with a respectable time of 03:33. The podium was rounded out by Ben Alexander (UOBCC), with a time of 03:48, just enough to keep Sam Holder (UOBCC) and Hugh Brashaw (UOBCC) at bay.
As the tail end of the field approached UOBCC's hopes for the top step on the podium lay on Andrew 'PA' Kirby's shoulders. However, he could not quite live up to his hill climb form from October, settling for second with a respectable time of 03:33. The podium was rounded out by Ben Alexander (UOBCC), with a time of 03:48, just enough to keep Sam Holder (UOBCC) and Hugh Brashaw (UOBCC) at bay.
All that remains to be said is chapeau to Baz Lewis, leader from start to finish, congratulations to UOBCC for the overall win and varsity point, and a big thank you to everyone that helped out (Thomas Farrugia for organising, Richard Spink and Dan Morris for timing and Ryan Witchell as pusher-offer)
Words by Fred Cook
Words by Fred Cook

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