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Australian Madison Championships - Women's support races

Joe Ciavola Velodrome, Melbourne

Saturday 18th February 2006

Cyclists International website

Scratch Race – “First off the Bike” Radio Cycling Show  (7pm-10pm Sunday, Melbourne AM 1116)

In the first of three races the women raced over 12 laps in the “First off the Bike” Radio Cycling Show scratch race. The pace was even throughout with all of the riders sharing the work. Notable efforts came from Esther Pugh-Uren and Michelle King who worked hard at the front. With two laps to go Monique Handley, Briana James and Michelle King positioned themselves well at the front of the group. At the bell Briana James, Michelle King and Nicole Holt kept the pace high but could not beat the pace of Monique Hanley who came round in the final corner to take first place.

1    Monique Hanley

2    Briana James

3    Michelle King

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Handicap Race – Eva Caulfield Florists

Going off from 10m, Briana James was never in contention for a win, as the front marker of Tabatha Cole made life difficult for the group to come together. Cole is returning to racing after recovering from knee surgery and had a great year, including the World Masters in 2005, where she took bronze in the 500m, bronze in the sprint and a silver the 2000m pursuit.  James caught the two riders in front of her: Hanley and Livia Glouchowska but they were unable to make contact with the four riders in front of them. Esther Pugh-Uren, followed closely by Nicole Holt and Michelle King, put in a huge turn at the front of the chasing group to close the gap to Tabatha Cole. With two laps to go the four riders front riders battled it out for top spot. Michelle King showed her experience and took the win ahead of the young rider from Bendigo, Ester Pugh-Uren and Nicole Holt, Tabatha Cole held on for fourth.

1                     Michelle King

2                     Ester Pugh-Uren

3                     Nicole Holt 

Speaking to WNC after the race Michelle said “ I am tired that that was a tough race”. Michelle is returning to racing after having children and is preparing for the National Masters and then the World Masters later this year.

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Keirin - Reuters  

In a close run race, Nicole Holt held her position after the derny had left the track. Holt  was closely marked by Michelle King and Esther Pugh-Uren, as they approached the bell. In the back straight they could not catch Monique Hanley, who took a flyer and passed the group with ease to take the win.

1   Monique Hanley

2   Nicole Holt

3   Esther Pugh-Uren

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Photos   Click on the images below to enlarge >>