State Cycling Championships

The fourth instalment of the School Sport SA Cycling Championships were held at Victoria Race Course on Tuesday 14, February with Saint Ignatius having six representatives: Jonathan Nguyen, Luke Henry, Matt Playford, Lily Burgess, Paul Bon Gonzalez, and Harsh Virk.

The first race of the Cycling Championships consists of a five-lap time trial where riders dismount every 30 seconds. Jono produced a scorching time of 8:32 with an average speed of 40kmph. In his first Cycling race, Harsh performed very well despite his handle wrap coming off mid-race… Jono to the rescue!

The ‘Points Race’ is a 20-minute event with points being given to the first four riders of every second lap. The pace was high with our students showing great determination and willingness to stay with the pack. Well done to Paul, Matt, and Lily for their tireless efforts, gaining valuable points for the College.

The criterium was the final event, a 20-minute circuit with the result coming down to the final lap. A pack broke away early, but Matt and Luke showed great resolve to continue at a solid pace and slowly catch up to the leaders. Lily raced extremely well again, winning her race comfortably.

Well done to Jonathan who competed in A grade against state and national riders. Big congratulations to Lily for winning the individual B grade shield. Although the team couldn’t retain the overall championship, it was a fantastic day of riding, thoroughly enjoyed by all involved.

Matthew Panos
Senior School Sports Coordinator