CC Ashwell CX Open 16/08/20

Last weekend saw the return of 'bunch start' racing with a few trial events across the country; with two SNCC riders taking the line at the Cyclocross Open event hosted by CC Ashwell.

'New normal' procedures including one-way systems for sign-on and warm-up, marked spectator bays with max 6 capacity in each and limited course access ensured as much social distancing as possible.

With the 'open' nature of the event seeing a good mix of ages, sexes and abilities, my race after an initial battle with a couple of the CCA boys soon turned into a 40 min CX TT, although a visit from the Puncture Fairy with just over a lap to go meant it stayed 'interesting' until the chequered flag.

The win was taken by a very quick youngster, with Vincent P in 7th and Simon 'not Rinaldo' R in 16th.

The event seems to have been passed all tests with flying colours, and hopefully there'll be another in September. With regards to our local CX leagues; Central took an early decision to cancel for the coming season, and whilst Eastern are trying to see as many events as possible take place the logistics of race day HQ, parking and course laying out mean that many organisers are likely to struggle.