Halesowen cycling fans have backed Jess Varnish to bounce back from her Olympic heartbreak.


A crowd of more than 100 crammed into Halesowen Cycling Club, where Varnish is a member, yesterday afternoon hoping to see the 21-year-old win gold in the women’s team sprint.


But they were left disappointed as Varnish and team-mate Victoria Pendleton were disqualified for an illegal changeover in their second ride, after having sent expectations soaring by breaking the world record in their first.


Club coach Carl Gregory believes the experience will make Varnish stronger in the long-run.


He said: “The bottom line is there will be another chance for Jess. She will be back.


“It’s very sad. It really looked like they were going to win gold.


“To lose a competition on disqualification or relegation is a real shame, especially for such a small infringement but unfortunately the rules are the rules.”


Anticipation built throughout the afternoon as members, written press, radio and television descended on the Manor Way club.


Varnish’s first appearance on screen was greeted with a huge cheer but an even bigger one erupted a minute later as the British duo set a new world record of 32.526 seconds in their first heat, beating the much-fancied

Australian pair of Anna Meares and Kaarle McCulloch in the process.
The carnival atmosphere continued as Varnish and Pendleton appeared to have qualified for the gold medal race with a strong second run.
 

But the mood began to dampen as it gradually became apparent the officials were investigating the changeover.

After an agonising and often confusing 15 minutes, their disqualification was confirmed and the club fell eerily quiet as bewildered fans digested the news.


Superlative performances from the men’s team pursuit and team sprint squads lifted spirits again, with the latter’s victory sparking wild celebrations.


But there was still plenty of regret over the fate of Varnish.
 

Dave Viner, the club’s road team manager, said: “In a way it shows what sport is all about, it goes from highs to lows in the flick of a switch.

“I think alongside other sports cycling is among the most unforgiving.


“It’s a shame in many ways as Jess was penalised for something out of her control.

“But she is a strong character and I am sure she will bounce back.”