Del Gigante’s middle group made the most of their handicap and rounded up the limit group in the last lap of the 42km race. The scratch group was closing quickly, but the fastest time rider Mal Blake had to be content with fifth.

Round seven of the series saw 19 riders race over a 31km course. The handicapper split the field into three groups, with the limit group getting a tight 9min start.

The middle markers were down to a 4min start, but with seven riders, they had the numerical advantage over the other groups.

The scratch group had six riders but was down to four on the first lap when the hot pace saw two riders pop off the back.

With one lap to race, the limit group was powering along with Paul Muir and Steve McLean setting the speed.

Greg Pattison was doing likewise for the middle markers with good support from Dick Hore, Bron Jones, Peter Stockwell, Michael Taylor and Matty Nugan.

The limit group hit the home straight with a 100-metre lead. In the charge for the line, Paul Muir claimed a maiden handicap win over Melissa Budd, with Steve McLean taking third.

Peter Stockwell led the middle markers home in fourth and was followed by Bron Jones in fifth and Michael Taylor in sixth. Mal Blake claimed the fastest time.

Tom’s Cycle City Cup standings: Bron Jones 95; Melissa Budd 92; Peter Stockwell 89; Mal Blake 76; Ana Stoll 74;Sarah Trotter 74; Tony Delgigante 73; Jack Trimboli 73; Steve McLean 70; Peter Budd 69; Michael Taylor 68; Peggy Carpenter 66; Greg Pattison 65; Jeff Stoll 63; Jenni Massey 62; George Rigon 62, Mitch Harrisn 60; Dick Hore 58; Paul Muir 57; Kingsley Massey 56.