Thundercross returned this year after a hiatus to Herne Hill Velodrome.
Photos by Jess, words by Kitty.
The Course
Our course was design by ThunderNoob, Noah Smith, and took on every twist and turn that HHV’s off-road circuit could offer. Tackling Big Bob, the steps, a nice big puddle and the rollers we didn’t hold back for this edition of Thundercross.
The course had to be challenging enough for the single speed riders but possible for our any-bikes and fixed gear riders. Hurdles, hairpins and hike-a-bike made for some good viewing and split the field.
The Categories
Any Bike
Single Speed
Fixed Gear
The Contenders
Any-Bike
In the any-bike category there was a gaggle (a herd, a murder?) of Brompton riders from Brompton HQ. With Val, the winner of Off The Streets any-bike races there was stiff competition. However, it was Veloshrimp AKA Leo who took the win on his flying tassel machine!
Strong mentions to the tall-bike, cargo bike, fully loaded elephant bike and Dad and Son duo. Representing the Thundercats, Tom took to the course on a flat barred shopping machine.
Single Speed
In the Thunder category we had national ranked single speed CX rider, Chris McGovern as a strong contender. However, ThunderNoob Noah knew the course and was raring to go. It was a battle to the end with the riders chasing the seconds. Chris managed to breakaway with a strong lead to superman over the finish!
In the Lightning category champion CX rider, Claire Frecknall, was suited and booted with Vanessa nipping at her heels. Newcomer Lily, was fierce competition and the three battled it out. Claire had an impeccable lead however a crash and mechanical led Lily to pip Claire.
Fixed Gear
In the fixed gear race we saw the menace in Aaron Hardin’s eyes as all his training culminated in the moment. Sweeping in for the win he pipped Joshua and Dimi to the line. After a severe mechanical Thunderflow rider Jude managed to get back in the race for a finish.
Aaron not only managed to win but had a huge lead over the trailing riders, maybe Fixed Beers should start racing tracklocross after all?
Special mention to Janz for the outfit of the race and the Trackloscotia crew who came down all the way from Scotland.
Kitty managed to win and lose the lightning race as the only participant!
A massive thank you to the Thundercats and other volunteers who brought it together on the day, with Bossman isolating I think we pulled it off! Look out for the next one, let’s hope Thundercrit isn’t quite as muddy.
NLTCBMBC 