Almost 60 riders started the "unforgiving" 69 mile regional road race around Quabbin Reservoir. The field of riders came from all of the New England states and New York/ New Jersey, and was the best quality field in New England outside of Killington's Masters 45 field. The Zephyr Team from Conn. featuring Jim Fraser and Francois Mertans added three new, strong members and was the strength of the field. Derek Williams, Henry Wilmer and Barry Boyce were NEMRT's entries. After only 20 miles of racing and 49 miles of hills to go, Zephyr sent one of their newcomers down the road. By the time the field reacted to the early move, the Zephyr Team was poised to control the chase. Barry having mechanical problems was gone and Henry slowed by back problems, Derek was left to lead the chase. Zephyr's efforts to slow the pace and the incredible strength of Cam Horton proved to be too much for tiring field. With the victory gone the field rode the final miles with the final sprint in mind. Over the final climb, just outside Hartwich and 5 miles from the finish line, only great sprinter Luigi del Buono was able to maintain position in the lead group. "The finishing straight-away comes after a small rise" said Barry "and you can see the line from 400 meters, it's not as close as it looks." The pack was about 20 coming over the last rise and regional criterium winner Peter Bates lead out the sprint. Derek, working hard, chose not to follow Peter's early move but smartly grabbed Luigi's wheel for the final 300 meters. Down into the line Derek proved his versatility by dusting the field for the silver medal for the region and the gold medal for the state. Barry offered after the race "that was one of the best sprints I've ever seen, I think we may have a new Bullet." Henry struggling at the end with his bad back, rolled in 30 second behind the field sprint with a very respectable finish.

1. Cam Horton Zephyr

2. Derek Williams NEMRT

3. Luigi del Buono EuroTech

@20 Henry Wilmer NEMRT