Croall warms up for GP with a track treble

THE intensity of racing in last night's round of the Meadowbank National Track Cycling League clicked up a gear as riders started to fine tune their preparations ahead of this month's DHL Edinburgh Grand Prix.

And one man who will be looking to make an impression against the international competitors on June 21 and 22 is Bruce Croall.

The City of Edinburgh man extended his advantage at the top of the league when he squeezed home in the 15-kilometre scratch, despite being pushed all the way by a determined David Martin (Bicycleworks.com).

Croall chalked up a win in the sprint then anchored his team to success in the Italian Pursuit.

Croall's team mate Nicky Hall kept alive his league challenge with an impressive late surge to take the honours in a 10-kilometre event that was contested at a fearsome pace.

League newcomer David Lines (Pedal Power) showed his potential with a win on his first track outing.

There was also a healthy points haul for Rab Wardell (Sandy Wallace Cycles), who was certainly the hardest-working rider on show.

In the youths events, Rosie Yeats and Emma McAlpine each had wins, although the female dominance was broken by their Edinburgh Racers colleague Ben Muir.