4th August 2008

Pinjarra Classic Race.  Jordan did his knee, so he wasnt riding the open.  We had a three strong team for this event in the support race.  Paulie, Kai and Stuart made the journey to Pinjarra for this "Classic".  First things first, this was one of the worst organised events for a while.  Finish line opposite the pub, just near the 1 main intersection in Pinjarra.  Great to see some full on sprints against the oncoming traffic at the finish.  Well done to all riders who managed to avoid cars. 
Back to the race.  The plan was to set up uber-climber Paulie for the attacks on the hilly section.  As with most plans, this went out the window when the climbs came on.  Stuart made the front group on the climb, went back looking for Paulie, couldnt find him, attacked back to front group and promptly blew up, finding himself 350m off the back with a few others and no mans land behind.  Working hard, he got back on only to lose contact at the second KOM point, then managing to get back on again, only lose contact on the final steep climb.  A final effort ensured that he made the front group with the last 20km down hill or flat.
Meanwhile, Paulie was a couple of groups back and Kai was chatting to the ladies brining up the rear.  Kai, entered into conversation with a lovely young lady, who was in her first race and seemingly enjoying herself.  Unfortunately, due to Kai's raw animal attraction, she became distracted and hit a major pothole on the great roads around Pinjarra and came down hard.  Check ups after the race revealed major abrasions and shock, but no broken bones.
Back at the front, it was a non-event at the finish as Stuart spent all tickets and cramped in the sprint.  Paulie brought in the remnants about 90sec down and Kai was further back apparently really enjoying himself and loving this 'racing' thing. 

All in all, a great day out for a laugh, but a bit of a waste in the results, although it was nice that we made the front group.  Next race on the calendar is Midland 100.