RACHAEL MELLOR of Holme Valley Wheelers took fifth place in Stage One of her club’s big event at High Flatts.
Vanessa Whitfield (VC St Raphael) took a lead of 16 seconds from the opening 10-mile time trial before finishing in a group at the finish of the 33-mile road stage to take the overall two-stage title.
Sprint winner Joanne Blakeley (Champion System/Maxgear/Base) was second overall and Gina Riley (Chester RC) third, but Mellor flew the home flag in the first leg with fifth in a time of 26min 45sec.
In the men’s three-stage event, Giles Drake (Herbalife-Leisure Lakes Bikes.com) took the overall honours by 52 seconds over James Gullen (Team Hope Factory Racing).
The opener was a 30-mile leg, over five laps of a rolling circuit near Birds Edge, then there was a 10-mile time trial on the second day before a final stage.
Drake’s overall time was 3hr 54min 08sec. Gullen was 52 seconds back and third-placed Alistair Rutherford (Wheelbase Altura MGD) 1min 42sec further adrift.
Holme Valley Wheelers are looking to cash in on the Tour de France coming to this area next year by promoting an even bigger event – and are seeking sponsors who can get in touch through the club website.
