PLYMOUTH Corinthians’ James Cartlidge claimed a well-deserved second place at the Rockbeare Road Race near Exeter.

The 50-mile event, held in perfect conditions, saw 60 third and fourth category riders compete over an undulating circuit.

Corinthians fielded a strong six-man team and early skirmishes saw the Plymouth riders near the front of affairs. Simon Bevans, Andrew Flynn and Will Horn, in particular, were riding strongly marking attacks.

Plymouth University lecturer Jon Ellis attempted to teach the bunch a thing or two with an attack of his own off the front but he was brought to heel swiftly by the eager peloton.

With each of the seven laps that passed more and more riders were shed from the group, but Corries’ Cartlidge maintained a position near the front.

With two laps remaining Tri UK rider Ben Lockett slipped clear and despite some strong team work form Plymouth Corinthians, he increased his lead to over a minute taking a fine solo win.

With Lockett out of reach, Corinthians veteran Adrian Sluman set the pace for Cartlidge (pictured top) for the last mile keeping the young Plympton rider sheltered until the 200 metre flag.

Cartlidge confirmed his earlier promise and unleashed his sprint to hold off the fragmenting bunch and claim second.

Cartlidge will now be confident in his attempt to take a further four road points at Friday evening’s showcase road event at the Eden Project, to qualify as a second category rider for 2016.