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Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate, Tuesday 5 Dec 1950
Cycle Club
With the promised tuition of Mr Russ Pollock, who is a member of the Gosford Shire Council staff, efforts are to be made to start cycle track racing in Gosford.
Mr Pollock was an amateur cyclist representing Australia at the 1938 Empire Games and, as a junior, represented Australia in competition with French junior champions at Sydney in 1936. He was also champion of the Petersham, Annandale and Camperdown cycle clubs.
Mr Pollock has offered to train Gosford boys in track racing and a meeting to form a club is to be held at Mr George Baker's cycle shop, Gosford, next Sunday (December 9) at 2 pm.
The relay race at Gosford last Saturday was a successful innovation, and twelve riders faced the starter. The idea was to team the riders in pairs, scratch man to race in conjunction with the limit man, second scratch with second limit, and so on, thus equalising the pairs as much as possible.
On the word "go," one of the pair rode a lap (about 3 1-3 miles), and immediately he crossed the line, his mate started off on his lap, and the pair doing the greatest distance in one hour (or the nearest lap to the hour) were the winners. The teams were Jack Eden and 'Butt' Fletcher, Vic White and Bren Moore, Cyril Dunk and Ces. Wakeling, Harold McNamara and Charlie Smith, Jack Smith and Barney Berry, Noel Westlake and R. Brown.
Six riders left the mark together, and great racing resulted, and as there was a lap spell for one of each team while his mate was racing, the pace was clapped on all the time. The winners were Dunk and Wakeling, two very promising riders, with Eden and Fletcher in second place, C. Smith and McNamara third. Jack Smith and Barney Berry (the Springfield pair) punctured while running well, while Jack Eden and McNamara also punctured. Six laps were completed in 57 minutes, and as the total distance covered was just on twenty miles, the pace throughout was solid. Next Saturday's racing will be at Erina when events of one and two miles will be contested.
The Club's picnic was held at Terrigal at the week-end, and the Club's colors, black with rose braces, were very much in evidence. The motor cyclists rode out together, as did the cyclists. Exhibition climbs were given on the Skillion, but on account of the bumpy nature of the ground and the danger of going right over the top of the cliff, the Committee would not allow a speed climb. "Rooster" Brooks took his James with three aboard right to the top, this being an excellent climb. Wally Harrison and Wal. Vaughan each rode up in twenty-seven seconds, but were not allowed further speed tests.
A programme of cycling and novelty events took place on the beach, winners being: Cycle race, half mile, Charlie Smith; slow race and novelty race, Bob Cooke. The novelty race was very amusing, as competitors had to push their bikes backwards for 100 yards, and ride back to the winning post.
The motor paced race was won by Cyril Dunk, who ran the half mile (approximate) in 33secs, paced by Wally Hayward. Unfortunately one of the cyclists collided with a lad during the afternoon, but though the lad's arm was hurt, we are assured that it is not seriously injured. This was the only unfortunate incident in a very pleasant and exciting afternoon.
The entries were numerous, and several Woy Woy boys assisted materially. Of course such minor matters as running over dogs, and scooping up the Council's gravel, as practised by Barney Berry, need hardly be mentioned. But don't forget next Saturday, boys, and give the Erina Sports a good entry and good racing.
Sir,—The decision come to by Erina Shire Council in refusing permission to the Gosford Club to run road races in the Shire area came as a bombshell to me and others interested in the sport of cycling.
I am simply dumbfounded at the Council's action in giving the whole bag. Had the Council given permission to race outside a certain radius there would have been dispute though, but to cut racing right out is the death knell of cycling in the district.
As far as my knowledge goes, there is not one town in the Commonwealth where bicycle road racing is prohibited altogether, and most cities and towns, such as Sydney, Newcastle, Parramatta, Goulburn, Maitland, Lithgow, Moreland, Cessnock and many other towns give every encouragement to road racing, both from a business point of view and a desire sport and pastime.
The danger of cycle racing is infinitesimal compared to that of motor cars. A "star" bike rider at his limit can only do 30 miles an hour, whereas a car can often fly from 35 to 45 miles, which is a danger to the community. Most accidents occurring on the roads nowadays are due to motor cars, but for a person to be knocked down by a racing cyclist is very rare; so why take exception to the poor old push-bike?
It is the wish of 99 in every 100 people of Gosford and district to see the Gosford Cycle Club carry on and be an asset to the town, and not be wiped out of existence. The Club to-day is in a strong position, both financially and otherwise, and the road racing has become very popular with the people of Gosford and district. It seems unbelievable that it was the Council's intention to wipe the Gosford Cycle Club out of existence, for that is really what it means.
In my opinion, it is an unprecedented action taken by one Council in the Commonwealth. Road racing is splendid exercise and good for the development of a rider, and is conducive to good health. So why crush a good, healthy sport? Our road racing refers to Saturday afternoons; there has not been one single accident on the part of a rider, or a hold-up of traffic! This is not as people exist! by the officials of the Club, who's opinion is taken in view of the big events scheduled to witness the Goulburn-Sydney race during the past 20 years.
It has been admitted to a large extent by Australian cyclists who have been racing in America and Europe. Our cycling champions all spring from first racing in country road races. Who knows, this district may be able to produce champions if allowed to continue racing, and riders should be given every encouragement and not completely crushed. In my opinion to prohibit road racing in the whole of the Shire seems poor sportsmanship, and has a tendency to dampen sport in all quarters, which in itself would be a detriment to the business community. I state, without fear of contradiction, that bicycle road racing is one of the safest sports, as the average rider always has complete control of his machine, and if anything does happen, it is usually the cyclist himself who comes to grief. The rider takes the risk the same as any competitor would in any branch of sport.
Two big races from Goulburn to Sydney (130 miles) take place about the 19th September, one for amateurs and the other for professionals, the amateurs usually starting one hour before the pro's. On that day there are at least 150 competitors on the road at the one time, and they have to pass through big towns of Moss Vale, Bowral, Mittagong, Picton, Campbelltown, Liverpool. Permission to race has never been refused since its inception over twenty years ago. There are also thousands of people out up to witness the finish of these big races, and the traffic on the main southern road is very much greater than it is in Gosford. At the same time there is seldom an accident caused through a cyclist competitor.
The big open road race on August 7th was being looked forward to by cyclists all over N.S.W., and riders from all parts were coming here. If this race is cancelled, Gosford and district will lose to a great extent, both from a business and publicity point of view. The publicity Gosford would get in itself would be worth hundreds of pounds to the district. It was my intention to advertise Gosford in connection with this race in every town in N.S.W.; also in the other States.
Members of the League in the metropolitan area are also very anxious to come to Gosford and race, so it will be a thousand pities if the race does not come off. In running this big race, at least 12 officials from Sydney would be assisting, and we rope off both sides of the road to prevent accidents. So where the danger to traffic comes in I fail to see. The Club's Saturday afternoon racing should be allowed to continue, as racing for the "Rowe" Cup is only half through, and just where we now stand is very hard to say.
I would suggest to the Council (if they thought fit to rescind their previous resolution) that all road racing in future would start and finish from the southern side of the railway, where the traffic is very limited. I sincerely hope the Council will reverse their decision.
The prize money for the big race on August 7th was practically as good as money in bank, including trophies, to just on fifty pounds. Woy Woy has the sympathy of the Gosford Club, as it is in the same boat as ourselves. Woy Woy's big race of 50 miles was set down for 24th July.
I anticipate that Club will move in the matter, as it cannot possibly take the position as it now stands. The Gosford Club intended racing at Woy Woy on July 1st, and the Woy Woy Club were racing in Gosford on 31st July. I sincerely hope the restriction on road racing will be set down to a minimum, and racing allowed to continue, both in the interests of the local cycle traders and the Club riders in particular, who have spent in purchasing new bikes over £250.
These riders at least should receive some consideration. It has been very hard work on my part to build the Gosford Cycle Club up to its present standard, and the success the Club has achieved, we have to try but no success. I ask advisers for the advancement of Gosford and District should support the Club. I trust Cr. Moillse will take this matter up and endeavor to assist in the rescission of the Council's former resolution.—Yours, &c.,
JOE DAVIS, President, Gosford Cycle Club.
Ourimbah cyclists have formed a club, to be known as the Ourimbah Cycle Club. Mr. L. Weidermier was elected vice-president, Mr. M. Bannister vice-president. Mr. Cecil Morris secretary, Mr. O. Agst treasurer, Mr. J. Yates handicapper and starter. Their first road race will be from the Ourimbah post office to the Lisarow post office and back, and is scheduled for November 27.
Although last Saturday was far from pleasant weather, there being drizzly rain, eleven cyclists started in the 12-mile race from the Hotel Gosford to Henry's Hill, finishing at the Hotel (out and back seven times). The first bit of excitement was evidenced when Cec. Wakeling took the home turn on the second lap a little too ambitiously, and fell. There was no injury, and Cec. quickly regained his mount, and was speeding off. Jack Eden also had a fall at the northern end of the course on the first lap. Rob Pryor came at the turn a bit friskily, and in an endeavor to brake his machine, lost his hold on the pedal with his left foot. He skilfully managed to make the turn without doing the spectacular stunt Wakeling staged.
It appears to the average onlooker that the riders approach the home turn far too fast, and what little time they expect to save is lost through making a big circle, whereas a smaller turn and a much slower pace would produce a far more effective result, without the big risk. Vic. White is without a doubt, an adept at "turning." The way he handles his machine is pleasing to watch. He simply skids his bus round the turn. This is the right thing to do, perhaps; but, one has to be an expert if he can confidently expect to do the angle at any pace. Cec. Wakeling lost interest in the race in the second lap and pulled out. Reg. Frewin put up a good showing, in spite of the fact that he was handicapped by the loss of a toe-strap.
At the conclusion of the fifth lap there was a good bunch of riders at the turn. George Ford (limit) was keeping the lead at every lap. At the finish of the sixth lap, through some misunderstanding on the part of the riders, the following thought they were on the last run, and they put in such a nice turn of speed for the post:—Berry, Pryor, Eden, White, Frewin, and Dunk. This caused no little amusement to the onlookers. Eden and White managed to pull up enough to make a rather hazardous turn. On this manoeuvre, White's superb turning saved what might have been a spill for himself and also another rider. Cyril Dunk had the misfortune to get a puncture as he came in.
Harry Hunt unfortunately got an attack of the cramps in the last lap and had to pull out. George Ford, who still maintained the lead through the seven laps, came in the winner. The others were:—A. Hewson 2nd, Jack Eden (scratch) 3rd, Reg. Frewin 4th, Vic. White 5th. The finish was very good, and reflected great credit upon the handicapper, Mr. Joe Davis, the Club's President.
The proprietor of the Hotel Gosford, Mr. H. F. Rowe, generously donated cash towards the prize-money. This gentleman also intimated his intention of presenting a silver cup to the rider securing the most points for the road-racing season, starting from May 1st, and concluding on August 30. The rate of points to be allotted are:—First 5, second 3, and third 2. Mr. Rowe also generously offers private rooms, with hot and cold water laid on, towels, &c., for the use of the cyclists at the finish of the races. This consideration should be greatly appreciated by riders, and should be a further inducement for other cyclists to join up. The proprietor of this hostel is, without a doubt, a real "sport," and it is such practical enthusiasm as this that helps to make a Club.
Mr. Joe Davis, the Club's President, tells us that he, at all times, is willing to do his level best for cyclists, both in regard to handicapping and other respects. And we must give credit where it is honestly due; Mr. Davis has, since his appointment to the presidency, been an untiring worker in the interests of Gosford Cycle Club.
There is also a deal of praise due to the worthy secretary, as we all know that job is not all "beer and skittles;" as the old saying goes. Walter Vaughan, though at present hors de combat, still puts in an appearance at every race meeting. Nothing like enthusiasm. "Shake it up" and get well again, Wal!—Our Cycling Reporter.
The meeting held at the School of Arts on Tuesday evening last for the purpose of forming a motor cycle and cycle club was largely attended, and a club was formed. Subscription is 5/ per annum, 2/6 on joining, and 2/6 each half year. Mr. Joe Davis (Woy Woy) was elected President, Mr. Cecil Lewis Hon. Secretary, Mr. W. Ward Treasurer, and Messrs W. Vaughan, H. Moore, J. Eden, F. White, W. Hill, H. McNamara, and C. Dunk, Committee. Mr. W. Watts is official timekeeper, Mr G. Fletcher referee (for cycle races), and Mr. W. Vaughan handicapper.
It was decided to affiliate with the N.S.W. League of Wheelmen, and to bank in the Rural Bank.
A number of Vice-Presidents were elected, but as some of these were not present at the meeting, the names of those who accept the position will be published later.
It was decided to run a hill climb for motor cycles this Saturday, at the School Hill, Gosford, the prize to be a gold medal, and the winner to hold it outright. The machines are to be in touring condition, and no cut-outs will be allowed. The start will be right at the commencement of the hill, and all powers will be off the same mark. It is optional for the big powered machines to be ridden solo or with side-car, but no allowance will be made if side-car it attached. The event is open to all who desire to join the Club, and subscriptions will be taken on the day of the event, to enable those who have not yet joined up to compete. The same applies to the cycle race. This will be a handicap of three miles, and will start at about 4.15 p.m. (the hill climb starts at 3 p.m.), and will be over the Erina course (unless weather conditions cause an alteration in course to be made by the Committee). There are 1st, 2nd, 3rd and fastest time prizes. It was also decided to offer to put on a cycle race at the Citrus Show, and the officials of that organisation are to be interviewed re the matter, and the result will be published next week.
The hill climb will be conditional on the weather permitting, and it will need at least two fine days before Saturday to make the hill thoroughly safe to climb. The working-bee has taken the rough bumps out of it, and, with the fine weather mentioned, it should be O.K.
The Club wants every motor cyclist in the district to be present if possible The entry fee is small, and the fun should be large. The public are cordially invited to witness both the race and hill climb.
Monday night's weather was not such as to tempt people away from the fireside, but nevertheless there was a good attendance at Mr. and Mrs. Flaxman's rooms when a Woy Woy Bicycle Club was formed to the accompaniment of music by the Jazz Orchestra, some of whom were practising below.
Mr. J. Pascoe was voted to the chair, and Mr. Fred Flaxman elected hon. secretary for the meeting.
The name of "Woy Woy Bicycle Club" was adopted, on the motion of Messrs Kennard and Reed.
It was decided that Cr. C. J. Staples be asked to accept the office of Patron, and that leading business men be invited to accept office as Associate Vice-Presidents.
Mr. Pascoe was elected President, on the motion of Messrs T. Maguire and N. Wolf.
Messrs W. S. Hadley and C. Kennard were appointed Vice-Presidents; Mr. G. Lawrence proposed, and Mr. F. Flaxman seconded.
Other officers were elected as follows: Secretary.—Mr. Les. Costello. Treasurer.—Mr. N. Wolf. Captain.—Mr. C. Hines. Vice Captain.—Mr. T. Reed. Committee.—Messrs G. Lawrence, T. Maguire, and J. Donohue.
Messrs Donohue and Maguire proposed that the annual fee be 5/ for seniors and 2/6 for juniors (17 years and under).
Mr. Flaxman offered the use of one of his large upstairs rooms for the general meetings; and the offer was accepted with thanks.
General meetings will be held fortnightly, beginning on Friday, July 27.
A riding costume of white shorts and maroon jersey was decided on; and samples of a Club badge will be supplied by Mr. Wolf. The uniform will be completed, at members' option, by a woollen cap in maroon and white.
Mr. Flaxman pointed out that interest in bike riding had been given a fillip by the action of the War Memorial Committee; and it was clearly understood that this Club would not act in any way in opposition to that object, but rather help it in any way possible, as all realised that it was a very worthy object which deserved every support.
In this connection it was decided not to immediately fix dates for Club races in view of an announced race on July 25th, in connection with the Memorial Committee, and the Hadley Cup to follow about a fortnight later.
The matter of the appointment of handicappers was decided by the election of Messrs Flaxman, Maguire, and Kennard.
Riders were advised to see that no "blocking in" was practised in Club races; and one member complained that the "blocking off" done by cars was sometimes dangerous.
Members were also counselled to be careful not to be on the roads after dark without lights, as "George Fletcher was on the warpath."
The first Committee meeting will be held at Mr. Flaxman's at 11 o'clock on Sunday morning.
Members and those desirous of joining are requested to meet in front of Flaxman's at 2.30 on Sunday afternoon for a Club run to Ocean Beach.
Various other suggestions pertaining to the working of the Club were made and tentatively discussed; and the meeting closed with votes of thanks to the Chairman, to Mr. and Mrs. Flaxman for the use of their room, and to the "Woy Woy Herald" for publicity given.
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