Andrew Shepherd made his trip to the foothills on Sunday well worth his while, taking out the latest race on the Tinwald Cycling Club’s programme.

The club headed to Methven for Sunday’s racing, where Shepherd claimed victory and lifted the Peach Cup in the 45km handicap event.

Five riders found the front late in the race but were well aware that the chasing bunch was pushing hard and had them in their sights leading into the final kilometres.

But Shepherd had the best of the charge to the line to edge out second placegetter Ryan Spillane.

Dave Shurrock turned the clock back with a strong finish to secure the third place spoils, while Kerry Clough backed up his recent good form with a solid fourth place finish.

Brian Ellis put in a good day’s work to secure fifth place and Nick Grijns led the race’s chasing group home to round out the top six.

Scratch marker Oliver Davidson took fastest time honours, riding the course in 67.12 minutes, while co-markers Tony Ward and Brad Hudson claimed second and third time respectively.

The juniors and division two riders contested a 15km handicap event, where James Reid pulled out a great ride to take the win for the juniors.

He had to work hard in the sprint to the line to see off the challenge from the fast-finishing Sarah Gould, who finished second.

First time starter Lucy Reeve showed she will be one to watch in the future, taking out the final podium position, while Leah Reid, Lily Davidson, and Daniel Gould came in to round out the top six.

Back-marker Ethan Titheridge secured fastest time honours riding the distance in 26.00 minutes.

Meanwhile, Kenny Johnstone caught Hillary Singlewood in the last 100 metres to claim division two spoils.

This week the club will contest a 48km handicap event around the Wakanui Beach block.

© The Ashburton Guardian - 11 November 2019