A staple race in the Mount Gambier Cycling Club calendar, the Soldier’s Memorial race sponsored by Borg Manufacturing, was held on Anzac Day along a 42km out and back course from Yahl to Dry Creek and back.
This race has been held in various locations over the years, but consistently since the end of World War II.
The weather for this edition of the race was almost perfect for a quick ride, with a slight southerly breeze perhaps slowing the riders on their outward leg.
Twenty-six riders nominated for the event, with some visiting riders from across the border joining the locals.
After the riders and supporters gathered at the starting point, former serviceman David Tye delivered the Ode of Remembrance, and after a moment of reflection the riders prepared for their race.
First away were Molly Opperman, Amali Judd, Matthew Opperman, Spek Peake and Michael Dethmore, with an eight minute gap to Miles Kroon, John Cranwell and Rohan Garfoot.
Five minutes later the group containing Phil Stasiw, Tegan Kuhl, Chris Neave, last year’s victor David Tuppen, Jami Buckley and Xavier Farmilo were given their orders to begin, followed a further five minutes later by Chris Kennett, Ethan McKenny, Sarah Dally, Craig Andrae and Craig Taylor.
A four minute gap ensued before Malcolm Tirabassi, Jason Saunders, Clint Lancaster and Daniel Falcone were allowed to begin their chase, followed two minutes later by Dan Whitehead and Rob Mann, with Nick Kidman and Alasdair Norris beginning their chase a further two minutes later, some 26 minutes after the first riders had departed.
With the groups being a little larger than the local races, the riders enjoyed the opportunity to recuperate from efforts a little longer in the slipstream of the other riders in their group, with the wind not slowing the majority of racers.
Craig Andrae and Alasdair Norris unfortunately became victims of a pothole on the Border Road, both suffering flat rear punctures which put them out of the race.
The spectators at the finish line were waiting in anticipation for the riders to return, with reports from those along the course letting them know how soon to expect the riders.
Soon the lead vehicle was in sight, with riders following in quick succession.
Amali Judd crossed the line ahead of Molly Opperman, with Spek Peake and Michael Dethmore not far behind.
Rohan Garfoot was the next to cross the line, four minutes after the winner, followed closely by Miles Kroon and John Cranwell.
Sarah Dally was the next, followed by Ethan McKenny, Xavier Farmilo, Jami Buckley, Craig Taylor, Matthew Opperman, Tegan Kuhl, Chris Kennett, Chris Neave, Clint Lancaster, Daniel Falcone and Jason Saunders.
Phil Stasiw crossed the line next, just ahead of the fast finishing Nick Kidman who took out fastest time honours, Malcolm Tirabassi, Dan Whitehead, David Tuppen and Rob Mann.
Presentations to the first five placegetters, fastest rider, and first female rider were made at the RSL, with the RSL Women’s Auxiliary catering for the riders, spectators and their families.
