Richmond Town Centre Road Race
By Charlie Rhind

CHRIS NEWTON (Northern Velo - S.I.B. Stationers) again showed his superiority over his North East rivals when he won this weekend's event in Richmond town centre.

The riders enjoyed a continental atmosphere as bank holiday crowds lined the circuit with its tight corners, narrow streets and long stretch of cobbles to provide an extra challenge.

David Jennings (Ferryhill Wheelers) was eager to set the pace in the early laps but National Squad member, Newton, was always in close attendance.

By the half way stage Newton had forced his way clear of the field with only Iain Jones (Richmond and Darlington C.C.) able to hold his wheel.

The two breakaways, better able to negotiate the tricky circuit, had steadily built up a lead of 20 seconds on their pursuers as they took the bell for the final lap.

Jones had done well to stay with Newton but was unable to match the experience and: strength of the World Championship hopeful who took the £50 first prize by three bike lengths at the finish.

A fierce sprint for the remaining places was taken by Leeds rider James Bainbridge. (Seacroft Wheelers) from Marcus Smith (Cleveland Wheelers).

The event, along with the senior race, benefitted from generous. sponsorship bye Wanes, the Catterick Fiat dealer, and Fawcetts Butchers.

Chris Newton goes to the National Squad; meeting at Leicester this week to learn if he has been selected for the Great Britain, World Championships team. His local rivals will be wondering if there is anything they can do to stop him taking the North East Championship at Stokesley this weekend.

1. Chris Newton (Northern Velo - S.I.B. - North Yorks Timber)
2. Iain Jones (Richmond & Darlington C.C.)
3. James Bainbridge (Seacroft Wheelers)
4. Marcus Smith (Cleveland Wheelers)
5. Gavin Ure (Wakefield C.C.)
6. David Jennings (Ferryhill, Wheelers)
7. Graeme Hatcher (Teesside Clarion).