The racing was close and exciting at Braintree BMX Club's meeting on Sunday despite the damp and sticky conditions but the opportunity was there to get in more practice before next week's regional event at Royston.

New rider, Dale Gladwin, seven, was the judge's choice for the rider of the day trophy as he improved throughout the afternoon taking two third-places and another two seconds to finish in overall second place behind the impressive formula 3 winner Stuart O'Connell.

Third place in this group after having taken a couple of second places was Jason Laudrum.

The formula 2 class saw Matthew Sewell in excellent form taking wins in al four races after battling all the way with Bradley Watts who finished second overall with Katie Roberts in third.

Combining the formula 1's with the Masterclass riders made for some tremendous races and Steven Sewell, 11, exceeded probably his own expectations by winning the first three heats closely followed by Jonathan Roberts.

Experienced campaigner, John Stockwell, made sure of victory in the final event of the afternoon to put him in overall third place behind Steven in first and Jonathan in second.

The Club are hoping to hold their next meeting at the track opposite Towerlands on Sunday, February 10 and more details of BMX racing can be obtained from David Humphrey on 01376 341806.

Published Tuesday January 15, 2002