The Lone Scratcher

Rumors are amidst the the Local cycling community that Shane Melrose will be the Lone Scratch Rider at this weekends Ralston Memorial Handicap Race,with Kauri Legs Melrose demoralising the local cyclists yet again at the past weekends handicap race out on the Taieri and storming into the points lead of the Overall points Champion.
Recent performances that can only be described as "individual" this recent turn of form has seemingly started after a recent trip to "the doctor" after suspected broken ribs forcing the early retirement of a downhill MTB career.
Steve Havard was heard to say after a recent "teams time trial " in Invercargill that "Kauri Legs should have just ridden by himself ."
Critics have suggested that only the same people are being mentioned on this website, however all forms of media only focus on the winners, something that is becoming all too apparent in our Local Newspaper with the report from the weekend being ommited.

Embarrasing is how Shane Melrose is describing all the positive press he has recieved lately, with his work mates now questioning him how much he is paying the newspaper reporter, "i just wish everyone else would put the training and dedication into this sport that I do" says a shy Melrose.

Of his co markers at the weekend David Air was the only one to match his speed and strength, Ash did well to hang on after a full 5 days training and the leg wax from hell.

I am looking forward to the return of a resting Geoff Keogh says Kauri who I heard has actually been seen out tearing up the MTB trails and himself (ed).

With the weekends race just days away there is still a chance for competitors to actually get up off the couch and do some training.....you know who you are......Joel, Johnny.

Or does it seem this Local Champion is unstoppable, I think not... recent performances from Jeff Notman have been extremely promising and with a hill to finish this weekend...look out.
Brendan Hastie a new name to grace these pages but spotted on his new bike just today putting in the milage.

So the scene is set, the handicapper is ready, and good luck on your own Shane, Scratch will be lonely.... but think of it as a privilage.