Jordon Gilmore, a 29-year-old data analyst for the University of Otago, based in Cromwell, outsprinted his bunch to win the prestigious Greenall Memorial on Saturday.
An influx of Central Otago riders added another dimension to the race, with three of the first five riders belonging to the Wakatipu club.
Gilmore, a former rugby and cricket player, switched to the individual sports of mountain biking and road cycling two years ago.
The 82.5km race around the Taieri included two ascents of the tough Berwick hill, but was run in perfect, warm conditions.
Although four bunches started, A-grader Stu Crooks found himself deserted by his co-markers on scratch. This left the door open for the strong break group to pick up bunches in front. This group of eight worked together and sniffed victory at the halfway mark.
As the inflated bunch of 14 rode through Outram, only limit riders Lorraine Stewart and Karen Rasmussen remained at large. Within 2km, they had been captured and passed, and it was obvious the medallists would come from the aggressive group hoofing it home.
In the finish straight, Stu Fleming attacked too early and was chased down by Brian Lippers. However, Gilmore timed his sprint to perfection, with fellow club member Craig McIlroy sliding in for second.
Fastest woman Elyse Fraser, using her track legs, claimed third place in 2hr 14min. Christchurch rider Michael Crooks, brother of Stu, picked up fourth place, with Wakatipu club member Lippers fifth and first over-50 rider home. Stu Crooks, virtually riding solo, picked up fastest time of 2hr 9min.
In the junior race, Megan Foley won and Cameron Lynch was second.
By Jan Brosnahan.
