The annual IG Nocturne has been growing in stature each year and the latest edition didn't disappoint. The crowds started to build from the early hours of the afternoon around the Smithfield market based circuit.
Posted On: 10th June, 2013
The annual IG Nocturne has been growing in stature each year and the latest edition didn't disappoint. The crowds started to build from the early hours of the afternoon around the Smithfield market based circuit. By the time the professional race started at 9.30pm the atmosphere was fantastic, the crowds several deep for the entire lap.
We had an idea the racing was going to be fast by the way the riders jostled for position on the start line. Each rider knowing it was imperative to be in the front or risk being distanced from the group on one of the numerous tight bends on the circuit. From the very first pedal stroke the racing was very much alive with our very own Ian Bibby taking the opportunity to test the legs of the group on the first lap. This set the scene for the rest of the race, numerous attacks ensuring a furious pace with nobody really creating a gap of any note.
Alex Dowset (fresh back from a Giro d’Italia stage win) did eventually force a five man group clear, which for a moment looked dangerous as Madison Genesis were not represented. With great teamwork and a hard chase, the team slowly bought the group back and set up a significantly reduced in size bunch sprint.
With three riders from Madison Genesis, Andy Tennant initially helped Dean get to the front which is when Ian Bibby started his lead out for the sprint, setting a pace fast enough the group was in a single line for the last two laps! Coming into the last corner Dean made his move coming with speed round the group, unfortunately in doing so he clipped a protruding barrier leg and punctured his front tyre! Even so he was able to carry his speed for 300 meters and hold on for third place behind a very quick Tom Scully and Alex Dowsett.
"What a fantastic event, the atmosphere was brilliant and the team really stepped up tonight. Every rider from the team out-performed my expectations of them and worked so well as a unit. I couldn't have asked for more, without the puncture I'm 100% sure Dean would have won it. A great night made even more special by having so many of our team supporters there." Team Manager - Roger Hammond
Click here for a full race report
Photos by Paul Watkins