Liam Winters

Grasstrack season proves a winner for Colchester Rovers

Colchester Rovers’ summer 2019 grasstrack season saw more than 40 young riders taking part, making it the most popular edition of the racing series in recent years.

The high numbers of participants meant that the club was able to run four competitive groups of riders throughout the season, which started back in May and ran through until August. Numbers were so high that the club’s fixed wheel bikes, which most riders use, were sometimes in short supply with riders having to share in some of the busiest weeks. Numbers remained encouragingly high throughout the summer despite the pressures of summer holidays for many.

Rovers 2019 Grasstrack Session 1 Youth Results

Session 1 - 13 May to 1 July

As well as seasoned youngsters coming back for their second or third season, there were lots of new and enthusiastic riders trying grasstrack for the first time. These were introduced to the sport through the coaching skills of Rovers’ coaches Tom Starmer and David Triggs, who proved especially helpful in bringing out the best in the new crop of riders.

Rovers also benefited from several special coaching sessions provided by British Cycling’s Russell Hampton.

The grasstrack season was split into two blocks of race sessions giving developing riders a chance to use their new skills to reach their potential. This year saw some fierce competition, even from the youngest Rovers, with lots of exciting racing for parents and guardians to watch.

As well as the Monday night racing at Shrub End, Rovers’ youngsters showed off their developing talents at other regional grasstrack events this summer, including Plomesgate, Green Arrow and Mildenhall, where Rovers riders produced some great podium performances.

The season finished with the traditional celebratory presentation party at the Shrub End sports ground pavilion, where riders received trophies and certificates to commemorate their achievements. Well done to all who made this season such a success. We hope to see you all next year.

Rovers 2019 Grasstrack Session 2 Youth Results

Session 2 - 8 July to 5 August