Thanks to Jack from Wightlink-LCM Systems for this latest report. Ed
Wightlink-LCM Systems rider Matt Tibbutt (pictured in the lead above) lined up for the final round of the Beyond Spring Crits at Hillingdon cycle circuit in West London. After his win in round one he was hoping for a good result. Eighty riders lined up for the start in glorious sunshine with only a little wind to challenge the peloton over 35 laps of a 0.94 mile circuit.
The race started hard and fast with constant attacks going off the front of the bunch. After around ten laps Tibbutt got away in a group of eight riders who built up a lead of around 20 seconds. With only four riders doing any work they were brought back to the bunch after a few laps of freedom.
Solo lead for Tibbutt
At around mid distance Tibbut – who is one of Wightlink-LCM Systems’ most experienced and prolific riders – put in a further attack from the bunch and quickly gained a solo lead of 30 seconds.
Two more riders joined him and together they started to extend the lead. Gradually more riders came across to increase the break to nine riders. With some strong riders present this was to be the deciding move of the day. The nine worked well together and extended their lead to 1 minute over the main bunch.
Fifth place for Tibbutt
The last few laps saw a flurry of attacks from the breakaway but with no one successfully opening a gap the nine were to contest the win in a sprint.
Matt sprinted to a solid fifth place earning enough points to retain his second category licence for this season, with half an eye on progressing to first category.
