Shere Takes Masters Women 60-64, Sweeney Wins 65-69, Lockhart Controls 70-74, Val Graciela Claims 75+ at the 2015 National Championships: Race Report and Full Results

Sweeney outsprints Shere but both win their age groups. © Cyclocross Magazine

by Cindy Brennan

Austin, TX – Tove Shere (Sport Systems Mountaintop Cycling) took the charge in the Master Women 60+ race, with Carol Ruckle (Team Redlands) on her heels. In the fray was Danny Summerhill’s mom Frances, showing the crowd where Danny gets his skills from.

The 65+, 70+, and 75+ races started moments later, and by the end of the first lap leader of the 65+ race Maurine Sweeney (Racer X Cycling) had caught 60+ leader Shere.

Maureen Sweeny (Racer X Cycling). © Brian Nelson

The two rode clear of the field, while legend Julie Lockhart (Northeast Bicycle Club) looked poised to lock it up for yet another National Championship in the 70-74 division.

Shere, despite suffering from racing with bronchitis in unusually frigid temperatures, stayed with Sweeney until the bitter end. Sweeney took Shere to the line and won the sprint, claiming a dominant win in the 65+ race. Shere was bested in the sprint, but untouchable in the 60+ race.

The legendary Julie Lockhart chose to ride the hill past the barriers, no small feat for many racers today. © Brian Nelson

Lockhart controlled the 70+ women’s race, winning yet again, as Val Graciela claimed the 75+ victory.

Hear from Tove Shere, who was unaware she won the 60-64 age category until moments after the race:

And from Maurine Sweeney, who bested Tove in the sprint to take the 65-69 win:

Masters Women 60-75+ Groups