The Mackay Cycling Club held its highly anticipated annual Hamilton Shield Handicap last weekend, providing riders with an exhilarating challenge on the newly redesigned Stockroute Loop course. Departing from tradition, the finish line was strategically relocated outside the clubhouse, offering competitors a swift and level sprint finish fuelled by a favourable tailwind. The revamped route, which now incorporates Lorne Road, passing by McLennan Park, proved to be a game-changer, eliminating the need for riders to navigate a part of the busy Bruce Highway.
The hilly terrain presented a demanding test for participants, who showcased their skill and resilience under the sunny yet windy conditions. It was a hard day on the saddle for the sprinters of the club, who struggled to keep up with the climbers over the Stockroute Road lumps. Whizzing past picturesque paddocks of ripening cane, currently being harvested for the upcoming crush, riders relished the scenic backdrop that Mackay's countryside had to offer. However, as the competition continues in the following weeks, cyclists will remain vigilant, keeping a watchful eye out for cane trains, harvesters, tractors, and potential hazards caused by cane remnants on the roads.
Andy Pate broke away from his bunch with more than a lap to go, taking a commanding lead of more than five minutes over the riders chasing from scratch. It was a close finish, with Andy holding his lead to cross in first while the bunch sprinting from behind were agonisingly close to competing for the shield.
Amongst the fast-finishing field of riders, Tim Ffrost emerged as the fastest male cyclist and was second across the line, displaying exceptional speed and endurance with a great time of 1 hour, 1 minute, and 38 seconds. Equally impressive, Tracey Borchardt claimed the title of the fastest female rider, conquering the challenging course in just 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 22 seconds. Meanwhile, Matthew Schatkowski's excellent performance secured his position as the leading junior rider.
As the dust settles on the Hamilton Shield Handicap, the Mackay Cycling Club looks forward to its upcoming event, the Eungella KOM (King of the Mountain) race, set to take place on July 9, providing another opportunity for the climbers to shine.
Results
1st Andy Pate
2nd Tim Ffrost
3rd Jarrod Sampson
4th Glen McDermott
5th Luke Schatkowski
6th Tracy Borchardt
7th Craig Larsen
8th Matthew Schatkowski
9th Peter Ransome
10th Jody Walker
L-R: Tim Ffrost, Matthew Schatkowski, Andy Pate, Jarrod Sampson
Tim Ffrost leads the sprint to claim fastest rider
Matthew Schatkowski was the fastest junior rider
Jody Walker, Michael Novikov and Shane Edwards had fun finishing the race
Peter Ransome (left) and Tracy Borchardt
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