A good turnout of riders graced all three grades at the criterium circuit on the western fringe of the city with Brendan Hallford (B) and Jess Saunders (C) winning the lower grades.

It was a delighted Ashford who talked to The Leader after having to work hard.

“It was a tough race,” Ashford said.

“We had nine or 10 in the field but there were a few away. Mitch (Carrington), Phil (Kelleher) and Ray (Griffin) were missing.

“There were a few attacks early too before Mick (Sherwood) and I broke away with  about 15 minutes to go. We worked well together.”

The two managed to stay away, with Ashford winning the sprint finish.

Darren Traill was third.

A busy Brendan Hallford capped  a good season by winning B grade from Lachlan Mackay and Jack Pianta while Jess Saunders broke away with Peter and Mal Nash and Darren Taylor in the C Grade Criterium Championship.

“We lapped the field but Jess was too quick for us in the sprint,”  publicity officer Mal Nash said.

“We all rode as hard as we could to take the sprint out of her but she was too good. 

“She was too young for us. We’re all over 50.”

Nash said the club has the Easter weekend off now before starting its road season with what could be the John Dewhurst Memorial Road Race.

“That’s normally around 60km and will be at Loomberah or Moore Creek,” Nash said.