Cycling series gets under way

RACING cyclists launchinto action in the 37th annual The League International/North Midlands Road Race League tonight at Dinnington.

The ever popular series started back in 1978 when it was won by Malcolm Elliott who went on to become one of Britain's best ever road men.

Once again this year there will be a series of three race venues, giving a total of 18 races that finish with the grand final in August.

The programme of weekly Thursday evening contests began last night with a set of six races on the course around Dinnington. This will be followed by competition at Barlow course, near Dronfield, rounded off with another six rides at Stainton.

The format will be the same as before in that the field of riders will be divided into three separate groups based upon age and ability, with possible movements between groups based upon performances.

Officials for the 2015 racing season include president Doug Bond, chairman Steve Ellis, secretary/treasurer Martin Ellis, course director Ray Newton, event co-ordinator Matt Rodgers, auditor Luke Allen and website (www.nmrrl.org.uk) manager Marc Etches. Ian Davenport, Danny Lowthorpe, Adrian Allison, Matt Rodgers, Paul Austin and Garry Hill are the rider representatives.