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@brooksie
The coaches could see that racing tactics were being deployed to stay near the front as the training session was coming to an end. With three laps to go the working line stalled and riders were three abreast coming out of the home banking. (yes the wind was a factor) In the later stages of the training ride if riders are at the front they should give it their best shot to either maintain the pace or pull the speed up a little. Jumping away or slowing up so somebody else picks up the pace are race tactics. These are dealt with on Monday night. Slowing up can be very dangerous in the later stages of a training ride as some riders drop their heads and focus on the wheel in front. In training, if on count back you realize you are going to be at the front for one of the last five half lap changes so be it – make it a fair one.
In racing terms, slowing the race up or soft pedalling on some tracks used to get you banned from the rest of the meeting for not defending your position!
For information 43 riders were still in the string with 5 laps to go. 27 riders were in the string for the last lap.