FROM smooth Siberian timber to muddy paths and old railway embankments, it's all the same to many Bromsgrove Olympique members who had a long, hard weekend.

Around 20 members and a dozen guests spent a couple of hours on the superb timber velodrome in Manchester.

For three members it was their first visit to the track. And despite initial trepidation at the super-steep banking, Craig Talbot and dad Steve took to the track like ducks to water, as did Chris MacDonald.

All riders stayed on their bikes this time despite a few near misses and an excellent day was had by all -- a tribute to Derek Yapp's organisation.

On Sunday, the fifth West Midlands Cyclo-Cross League event was held at Wolverhampton's Aldersley Stadium.

First off were the under-12s, with more success for Craig Talbot who took third place. Genevieve Billington was 15th and second girl, Nick Wilcox was 16th and Jason Dingley 20th.

In the youth category Alex Billington held second place until half distance, when he was caught by team-mate Will Goulbourne and Matt Lee from Climb on Bikes.

Changed hands

Second place then changed hands a few times between Will and Matt until Matt managed to escape on the penultimate lap.

Will held on to take third place with Alex fourth. Ross Dingley and Peter Banham also had quite a tussle, with Ross finally finishing ninth and Peter tenth.

Peter Yates rode well to take 15th, as did newcomer Scott Whitcombe-Troth who finished 19th. Chris MacDonald, feeling tired after his hard ride at the velodrome, finished 23rd.

In the vets, juniors and ladies, both Rob Twigg and Francine Billington continued their winning ways, taking the vets and ladies category prizes.

Martin Barnett finally managed to dislodge Ian Billington from his back wheel by diving in front of lapped riders at the foot of the slope.

He took an excellent seventh place with Ian ninth. Geoff Dingley was next in 17th, Mike Cooper 18th, Richard Yates 28th, Gerry Blackmoor 29th (and first grand master vet), Heather Wilcox 30th (third lady) and Kate Salmons 35th (fourth lady).

With Alan and Ian Dyus riding the National Trophy series at Mallory Park, the team for the seniors was a little depleted, Luke Twigg riding a good race to finish 30th with Steve Talbot 33rd.

Next weekend sees a break in the cross league promotions. However, you can be sure the pedalling won't stop. For details phone Ian on (01527) 833847.