Manchester Metropolitan University
NWCCA finale

Giles Drake wins 10th title in North West Cyclo-cross finale

Sport | 2nd February 2022

By Benjamin Golaub

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Excitement was in the air as Buile Hill from Salford geared up to host the Northwest Cycle Cross finale.

Cyclists attended the first ‘proper’ final since covid jammed its branch in the organisation’s spokes.

The track, built on an old ‘pitch and putt’ golf ground, has been affectionately named the ‘Super Mario Course’ by competitors due to its tight turns and cambers. Some riders described the course as “quite technical” and “a great season ender”. 

Spirits were high and so were the numbers with the 21/22 finale having more entrants than any previous year at Buile Hill.

This could be down to the family-friendly feel, with riders young and old coming from all over the country to participate in the last race of the season.

Some families even had parents and children competing together, keeping two wheels in the bloodline.  

Seriously high winds plagued the day, but this made no odds to serial winner, Giles Drake, who won his 10th title while riding for Wheelbase Cab Tech Castelli in the seniors, juniors and U23s league.  

Karen Heppenstall was crowned victor of the women’s league, meaning she qualified for the world masters where she will hopefully continue her winning ways. 

Other results included Girls U16 league which was won by Alice Colling and labelled “set for big things” by Salford CC member and organiser, Pete Murray.

Pete described the North West league as “a real proving ground for all these huge talents”. 

After the success and love for the Super Mario Course, Salford are looking to create a second track.

Pete said: “It would be great to run a second round around Salford. Watch this space.”