Col Maciver won two titles in his division of the NSW Masters Championships held in Moruya on the South Coast over the weekend of 15-16 May. On the first day was the road race, featuring two laps of a 17.5 km course, with the critical section occurring in the last 3 kilometers to the finish line involving a climb from the Moruya River to the ridge top above Moruya.
Most of the first lap proceeded at a fairly steady pace with only a few riders willing to take the lead. From the outward crossing of the Moruya River to the second turn-around Col stayed on the front and rode reasonably hard up the hill to the finish line at the end of the first lap to try and thin the field out a bit.
On the climb to the finish line on the first lap Col surged without attacking all out, trying to form a small group that could ride away from the main bunch. However, nearing the top of the climb he was surprised to find himself alone with the others a fair way back.
With still more than half race distance to go, Col decided to take a risk and try for a solo win. So he went as hard as he could for 5 kilometers to establish the break, and then rode steadily for the rest of the race to try and hold on to the lead.
The risk paid off and he gradually increased his lead all the way to the finish and won by 2 minutes. Having to work so hard for the win made it all the more satisfying.
Next day was the Criterium, held on a course in the Moruya Industrial Estate with a good surface and wide sweeping bends which made for high speed yet safe racing. There was an uphill drag in the first half of the circuit with a downhill run on the second half.
Not being a fan of leaving the race to the lottery of a big bunch sprint, Col repeatedly rode hard on the uphill drag to try to whittle the field down a bit or even break away. It took many repeated efforts to make an impact but eventually it started to work, and after being away for short periods with other riders, Col got away by himself in the latter part of the race.
In a near repeat of the road race, he rode as hard as he could for a few laps to establish a break then settled into a steady hard pace to the finish winning by over half a lap.
Our congratulations to Col for two fantastic performances, and for doing a sterling job representing the club.
Well done Col, you keep me motivated.
The great Dane, who¨s going to the Tour, look out for me July 14 on Col de Madelaine.
Who’s this Ollie person?
Still going strong, good on you, Cole
As always – an inspiration!
A champion.
Well done Col!!
You the man Col, very inspirational.