This Sunday saw the first ever Poker Race from local fixed wheel bike club Deaf Pigeon.
AdvertisementAround 20 fixed wheel cyclists took part in the street race around Preston from 5pm.
The competition started in Avenham Park, where entrants received two playing cards and a route map with three check points just before the race started. The riders would collect a further playing card at each check point, playing their poker hand at the end with a prize for the best one.
There would be a new bike frame for the fastest racer, as well as t-shirts and bike accessories for second, third and last place. The winner, with the fastest time, was Davo from Plungington, who was surprised to win.
“I have never entered anything like this before and I have only been riding a fixie for 6 months.
“I won because I didn’t follow the pack. That and going through far too many red lights.”
Police concerns about the safety of the race were allayed by organisers branding it a treasure hunt rather than a race. The only injury of the race was very minor and happened within yards of the finishing line.
Will Brown was in sixth place, but he skidded on gravel on the last corner, leaving him with bloodied knees and ninth place.
The day ended with further prize-giving in a trick contest, with the smell of burning rubber filling the air while riders skidded for up to 20 metres.
23-year-old organiser Perki was delighted with the turn-out and success of the day. He said: “Today has been sick, absolutely perfect.
“People have come from Guildford, Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester.
“Next year will be even bigger, with more stuff to giveaway”
You can find out more about Deaf Pigeon at their website.