RIYADH, 16 January 2004 — It seems a long time ago since Rob Patrick stood on top of the podium, but by taking advantage of the absence of the younger stars, victory was his in the last Saudi Hollandi Bank-Riyadh Wheelers event of 2003, the Zahid Tractor 10 mile Time Trial.
A good turn out of 23 riders faced time keeper Charlie Dryden, and for the first time in Riyadh cycling history all riders were faster than the bench mark time of 30 minutes (20mph/32KPH).
The day was perfect for fast times with hardly any wind and cool temperatures, which warmed up as the sun rose above the scenic Al Ammariah valley.
Early pace setter Phil Green put in a strong ride after missing the last event, but with the faster riders at the back of the field he knew his time would not hold-up.
Another solid performance by Steve Decato rewarded him with 2nd place just ahead of time trial specialist and top Pinoy Jaime Sunga.
Ride of the day came from Matt Hughs, who continues to improve week by week and will be one to look out for in the future.
As always, L. Pentlebury amazed the crowds by coming home as top master in 7th, as well as being ahead of the other Cat B aspirants K. Allen and F. Gocian.
Jim Bridge enjoying a comeback had it all his own way in the Senior category while Patrick also scooped the Veterans prize.
The new course was met with approval from the competitors and resulted in many personal bests being recorded.
Thanks also go to minor sponsors BAE Systems, Sunglass Exchange, DHL and Al Marai for their generous support of the Wheelers.
Results: 1st R. Patrick 23m03s; 2nd S. Decato 24m03s; 3rd J. Sunga 24m04s; 4th M. Hughs 25m11s; 5th H. Rom 25m27s; 6th P. Green 25m28s; 7th L. Pentlebury 25m54s; eq 8th R. Gallardo, E. Seneres 25m57s; 10th F. Ranola 26m40s; 11th A. Al Sarhani 26m43s; 12th R. Gocian 26m57s.
