TEAM Ride 24/7 from Cirencester had a very strong showing in the latest round of the Cotswold League series – the Malmesbury Road Race – hosted by the Bristol Road Club.

Cycling

Cotswold League

Malmesbury Road Race

Joe Barry (second), Ben Luckwell (fourth) and Grant Bayton (sixth) all finished close up but Ride 24/7 lost out William Harper (Dulwhich Paragon).

The circuit started in Minety, heading towards Malmesbury, then coming back through Brinkworth in a 20-mile anti-clockwise loop.

The race started steadily as two riders broke away from the gun, staying clear for an impressive three laps.

In the peloton there was no immediate panic, however, and the break was reeled in.

Team Ride 24/7 riders made subsequent attempts at a breakaway, but all the moves were closely watched and nothing could stick. Coming into the last lap a bunch finish looked likely.

Ride 24/7’s Charles Rees and Mike Ward covered moves up front, with Bayton and Luckwell leading out Barry.

With approx 2km to go, Harper attacked off the front and no one responded. His move was timed to perfection and he held on for the win by less than three seconds over a fast-closing peloton.

On Saturday, September 6, it is the Cricklade Kermesse, the final round of the Cotswold League, with Grant Bayton in pole position to take the season-long championship.