THE new racing season is now in full swing for many young and not-so-young Bromsgrove Olympique members.

Events were contested at Curborough, Victoria Park, Leamington, Birmingham Wheels and Birmingham Bus-iness Park.

The Victoria Park races saw some very close racing, with Alex Billington taking a second, two thirds and a fourth place in the four events, plus winning several lap prizes. Will Goulbourne and Ross Dingley also took several high places, though Peter Banham found the going tough with the older competitors.

However, when the organiser put on an under-12s event, he took an excellent second placing.

Genevieve Billington and Emily Seal also rode well in their individual categories.

At Wheels, senior rider Alan Dyus took eighth place, though at the road event at Birmingham Business Park, he was unlucky to puncture while riding very strongly with only a few miles left to the finish.

Francine Billington successfully made the step up to the junior ranks, riding two circuit races at Leamington and the Birmingham CC's road event near the NEC.

She raced against around 50 male competitors in these, finishing not far behind the winner each time.

Dad Ian rode the same events and had to work very hard to keep her from beating him to the line.

At Curborough, Will Goulbourne did an excellent ride in the first event to finish fifth, Ross Dingley and Peter Banham finishing well down in the field. Jason Dingley also beat several riders years older than himself.

In the second race, a good handicap gave Ross and Peter the advantage, staying clear of the chasing group. Ross won the final sprint with Peter third.

On April 24, several club riders had turned up to ride at Birmingham Wheels to find the course blocked by travellers.

They had broken into the park overnight and parked their caravans on the circuit.

Some members made up for their disappointment with a trip to Bike 2001 at the NEC, where they practised their bike skills, including a roller racing event, where Genevieve Billington was the fastest U10 girl, Emily Seal quickest U14 girl, Francine Billington was fastest woman and Ian Billington the best over 50.

Richard Seal didn't take a fastest jersey but gained a new T-shirt for his efforts.

This week sees the start of the track season at Halesowen on Friday. Don't forget the Raleigh Challenge for under-13s on Saturday morning at North Bromsgrove High School.

Any young person who can show their skill and speed can win a place in the regional final, with several new bikes on offer as prizes.

For details phone Geoff on (01527) 871687.