Stage 5 – Redlands Business Centre Sunset Road Race – 100km

Today I had the pleasure of wearing the green jersey and enjoying the final stage without any pressure.  The race consisted of a 10km loop that we completed 8 times.  The climb was done at a leg shattering speed and eventually the front group that Joan and I were in, had reduced to about 20 riders.  Jeanson (Rona) had attacked solo on lap 1 and was never seen again.  With two laps remaining another 5 riders broke away and stayed away until the finish..

I was so incredibly tired today and was off the back on every lap up the climb.  Somehow I hung in there and Joan encouraged me at the end to sprint hard with us both scoring a top 20 result for the stage.

The overall presentation was a great experience, receiving ‘green flowers’, another green jersey and getting acknowledgements from the crowd.  I really appreciate the support and well wishes from everyone I know who congratulated me for winning the sprint jersey.  And all I can say is all hard work is worthwhile – winning this jersey is a fantastic experience.

Cheers

Helen.