Cloudride .... halfway update

As the combatants in this years Monaro Cloudride arrive into Jindabyne [just past the halfway point] it's no clearer when and where this years winner will emerge. Seven riders are within hours of each other and ride/sleep strategy will play an increasing part in the outcome.

Dave Wicks [ITT and+24hrs] has had to abandon. Bruised ribs from his Friday night chain snap and saddle sores have pushed past his grief limits. Great ride from Dave to this point and disappointed to have had to pull the pin.

Russ Phelan headed out of Nimmitabel this morning in fog and managed to deck himself on the way up to the Snowy Mountains H'way ... some needlework in Bombala should get him sorted and on his way again.

The front trio of Dave and Kathryn McInerney and Nijat Imin arrived at the Snowy River crossing at 1:30am this morning and crossed over in daylight and now have the Barry Way climb behind them and already through Jindabyne heading into the Kosciuszko National Park.

Karl Morrow once again set the early morning departure time example .... on the bike at 1:30am out of Delegate followed by Jody a few hours later and at dawn by Mark Simpson. The four chasing riders including Jody and Trev Fairhurst are all on their way into Jindabyne with the Barry Way climb behind them.

Gwyn Tavener-Smith had an overnight stop in Bombala and has ridden well today to make Tubbut and a decision whether or not to tackle the Vic Alpine Park crossing as dusk approaches or ride with fresh legs in the morning.