Along For The Ride C YC L I N G
In Conversation With
ANZA Cycling took their skills and determination to Thailand for the Tour of Phuket.
Rolling terrain, cheeky motorcycle riders and flat tyres did not deter ANZA Cycling!
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NZA Cyling members Jock Hughson, Wesley Elder, Russell Vanderwater, Jesus Tosca, Robert Chambers, Morgan Sparrow, Matt Latham, Sam Jackson, Tim Hutchins, Gaétan Chaumette, Florent Dicharry Andrew Cherriman and David Cardile flew to Thailand last month for the Tour of Phuket 2023, a three-day stage road race held in the Phuket and Phang Nga provinces of Thailand.
DAY 1
On the first day, riders competed in a short and fast time trial over 4.5km at the Phuket Gateway. The fastest riders achieved average speeds close to 48kmph, and riders with clip-on bars enjoyed a distinct advantage as TT bikes were not
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allowed. The team made it through, but Wesley was interrupted by a random motorbike en route, costing him precious time. Despite this, the team had a couple of riders well positioned, with Tim in the 45+ and Morgan in 35+. Jock also secured a second place in 55+.
DAY 2
Day two was eventful with 151km of rolling terrain and one hill large enough to force a selection in the groups. All the age groups assembled on the start line, separated by motorcycle riders. The motorcycles held gaps of 200-400m between the groups, and at 10km pulled out, signalling the start of racing.
Day two was eventful with 151km of rolling terrain and one hill large enough to force a selection The cheeky riders launched their attacks, attempting to secure a place in the faster pelotons up the road. In the end, the 45+, 55+ fell into one group, while a smaller group of 35+ latched onto the elite peloton, with Morgan in the mix. That initial move by Morgan secured him a solid fifth place in the 35+ at the end of the day. Meanwhile, there was drama in the
anza May/June 2023
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