Though better known for her Track skills, Francis Newstead
turned in a convincing performance on the tarmac to win the Women’s National Criterium
Championship at the Hillingdon circuit on Sunday.



Newstead’s success was built on a well-organised break with Melanie Sears, which
developed after about 30 minutes of racing. First Sears broke clear, then Newstead
jumped across to join her. From then onwards the pair worked well together to keep
the chasing pack at bay.



Both Newstead and Sears have come back from injuries this year and it was good to
see the talented pair in such good form. At the line Newstead was able to out-sprint
Sears, with a delighted Melanie Szubrycht winning the sprint for third place just
ahead of defending champion Sally Boyden, one minute down.



Provisional results

Women’s National Criterium Championship, Hillingdon, Sunday 16th July

1. Frances Newstead (AC Slumberland/Slumberland Beds)

2. Melanie Sears (Alsager/Rudy Project)

3. Melanie Szubrycht (BCF Private Member) 1.00

4. Sally Boyden (Clarke Contracts/Sandy Gilchrist Cycles)

5. Susan Carter (Alsager/Rudy Project)

6. Sara Dean (Oxford City RC)

7. Angela Hunter (GS Strada/Rudy Project/Afford)

8. Jenny Copnall (Berghaus Cannondale)

9. Michaela Fischer (Guernsey VC)

10. Joanne Cavill (Mid Lothian RT)

11. Leda Ray (Gore RT)

12. Rachel Heal (Birkenhead NE CC)

13. Lucy Jude (Cottingham Couriers/Cottingham Cycle Centre)

14. Josie Heffernan (Heffs Bike Shop)