FOR the first time in over a decade, cyclo-cross racing returned to Bromsgrove with Olympique's promotion of the second round of the West Midlands League in Sanders Park. The events also included the British Schools Regional Championships.

The two courses, one for the under 12s and a much longer one for the youth category and the seniors, juniors, veterans and ladies, were well received by the 90 visitors and 25 club members who rode, marshalled or helped mark out the course.

The under 12s event was first, using a track through the jumps area built and used by many local children.

A fast race developed, led as usual by Wolverhampton's John Murphy, and chased by half a dozen riders including Olympique's Craig Talbot.

He unfortunately had his chain fall off in the jumps and lost valuable time. He chased hard but couldn't catch the group, eventually finishing eighth. Very close behind was Genevieve Billington, who rode exceptionally well to finish tenth and first girl, taking the regional title. Also winning medals or certificates were Jason Dingley, who took the U8s prize and Nick Wilcox, who was second in the U10s.

The next race saw a tussle at the front between Olympique's Alex Billington and Will Goulbourne, plus Wolverhampton's Stuart Jones, Matt Spragg from Red Kite and Matt Lee from Climb on Bikes.

Alex's battle was over when he hit a tree and lost his balance in the jumps and flew over the handlebars. Will Goulbourne stayed well in contention, losing the sprint by a bike length to take second place.

Alex trailed in a minute down to take sixth spot. Peter Banham took ninth, Ross Dingley tenth, Peter Yates 13th, Chris MacDonald 16th and James Lawrence 22nd. Will was placed second in the Schools Regional Champ-ionship for U16s and Peter Banham and Ross Dingley second and third in the U14s.

In the seniors/juniors/veterans/ ladies, first Olympique finisher was veteran rider Rob Greenaway in fifth veteran place.

New signing Martin Barnett was ninth vet, Tony Boyle 11th vet, Ian Dyus 23rd senior, Mike Cooper 15th vet, Ian Billington 16th, Geoff Dingley 17th vet, Franchine Billington finished third lady.

The first ever cross ride for Craig Talbot's dad Steve saw him take 26th senior. Luke Twigg was 28th senior, Paul Chamberlain 20th vet, Richard Yates 25th vet and Heather Wilcox fourth lady, Alan Dyus unfortunately did not finish.

Well done to Gerry Blackmoor for organising a first-rate event and to all those who helped on the day.

Particular mention must go to Hazel Blackmoor and partner, who produced the computerised results, Derek Yapp on the finish line and Mick Solloway, who is still recovering from a serious cycling injury -- welcome back.

Next week sees the third round of the West Midlands league at Hagley School, Rugeley, Staffordshire.

For more details phone Ian on (01527) 833847.