However, it is worth pointing out that many of us take racing, particularly cross, quite seriously. And some, snuck amongst our midst, are quite good at it.
Both of them are way too modest to post anything themselves - indeed they disguise themselves with other kit whilst racing to draw attention away from from their exploits - but there were two Belgians racing at the forefront of a National Champs last weekend. Whilst they ride officially for other clubs/teams, we will claim them as our own.
Dave Haygarth has been riding at Elite level for many years before succumbing to Vets status this year - top ten 3 Peaks finishes, crit wins in gruff Northern towns, a North West Cyclo-cross League title a few years ago, and long time member of an all conquering Wheelbase Cycles cross team.
Gary Lingard apparently rode for the Gary Fisher mountainbike team in a past life and on a different continent, but of late has been upsetting the established order of Veterans British Cyclocross races in his first season as a Vet.
Dave produced a 'solid' ride on a technical and tricky Nationals course at Derby in the Vets race, just outside the top 10, coming home in 12th.
Gary nearly produced a big upset, spending much of the race in 3rd spot, before a late charge by former professional Chris Young nudged him out to 4th. Too quiet to make a fuss, it is fair to say that the media machine at British Cycling has overlooked Gary all season, favouring the old-guard that have been familiar faces for some time. That will change.
Anyway, congratulations to those two for stellar performances. And we look forward to seeing them off-duty in a Belgians shirt sometime soon.
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