Tough conditions at 2023 Mudgee Classic for Gunnedah cyclists

Three Gunnedah cyclists travelled to the state’s Central West at the weekend for the 2023 Mudgee Classic.

Phil Hutchison and Grant Roberts tackled the 125km Challenge Classic – a circuit taking in the townships of Gulgong, Ulan and return journey to Mudgee.

Both riders completed the race in just over five hours.

Meanwhile fellow Gunnedah cyclist Garry Turner took on the 55km ‘dirt’ course on Saturday amid tough weather conditions.

“It was raining when we signed on, it was raining when we started and when we finished,” Turner said.

Despite the weather, the veteran cyclist finished the race ranked 133 from 240 total competitors and also backed up for the 65km road circuit on Sunday in much better conditions.

It was Turner’s first time competing at the Mudgee event and unlikely to be his last with some of the best cyclists from throughout the state taking part.

“The calibre of riders there was incredible,” he said.

More than 2000 riders competed in five races ranging from 35 to 175km in the third Mudgee Classic.