GEORGE Bates, Bromsgrove Olympique's star youth rider, took full opportunity in the Coventry Cycling Club's West Midland League cyclo cross race at Rugby to provide further evidence of his cycling prowess.

While one or two of his serious competitors were missing due to the National Trophy event the same day at Ipswich he took full advantage to shine.

He did not disappoint and half way round the second lap of a very hilly and slippery course, he escaped from Halesowen rider Oliver Graham to build up a commanding lead.

Despite crashing on one of the tight corners, his lead continued to grow with nearly two minutes gained as he crossed the finish line to much applause.

This performance should give him a top three place in the overall league standings.

Genny Billington also competed in the race and finished fourth girl, having had considerable problems with a mud clogged bike!

Earlier in the day, George's younger brother Ted had also ridden in the under 12's race, finishing among the top 20 riders

Peter Yates achieved a similar place in the Senior competition.

The Vets, Juniors and Women's race saw the main Olympique contingent, with best place in the first 10 going to Alan Dyus, with brother Ian next, followed by Ian Billington, Mike Cooper, Richard Yates, Gerry Blackmoor and Nigel Pedley.

The next league race is the Keith and Joan Edwards Memorial event at Rugeley, a tribute to the couple who made cyclo cross a life's' work, with many national championship promotions at Sutton Park to their credit.

Next week, the three Olympique young riders who took part in Stage Two of the British Cycling's Talent Team search, Genny Billington, George Bate and Dominic Jelfs, should find out if their efforts at Catshill First school were enough to give them selection for the Great Britain youth squad.