Australian
Masters Games
Geelong Area, 20th
Feb to 1 March 2009
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Leon
Gibson |
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Grampians Vets cyclist and local
cycling legend Leon Gibson once again produced
some top performances at the recent Australian
Masters Games, held recently in the Geelong area.
Competing
in the 70 to 74 year age group, Gibson took out
the 20 kilometre time trial in a very fast time
of 32 minutes, clocking an average speed of 37.5
kilometres an hour. He finished 30 seconds clear
of the next rider in a field of 13.
Unfortunately the road race
was cancelled, due to the expected hot weather
last Friday, but in Saturdays criterium, Gibson
was once again in the medals.
Held in Geelong
over a short circuit with tight corners, the
riders rode for 20 minutes, then completed another
two laps.
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Leon |
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By mid race, the field had been
reduced to less than half, with five riders still
in contention. Over the closing stages, it was
down to 3 riders, with Gibson still amongst them.
However
the other two riders worked together, taking
in turns to attack, with Gibson having to chase
them down.
hen it came to the final sprint,
Gibson found his legs were wanting, but still
finished a hard earned and very creditable third.
At
72 years of age, Gibson still gives riders much
younger than himself a hard time in local racing.
His strength and determination are well known
amongst cyclist all over the country, as well
as his willingness to work hard and selflessly
for any bunch of riders he finds himself riding
with, earning the respect of all those who
come into contact with him..
Local club members congratulate
Leon on yet another great effort, and wish him
many more successes in the future.
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