A return to Nant Ucha Farm was due and on the cards, and as always, this venue did not disappoint. Recent rainfall meant that the fantastic streams at this venue were always going to be challenging and 78 riders took to the woodland to have a good days fun on classic trial style sections. A really good showing of 22 Pre 65’s paired with 18 Twinshocks made up the classic classes with 17 Air Cooled Monos and 21 Modern Mono’s also filling out the entry cards. New observers and new riders were evident (welcome and thank you…) and it was great to see 10 Experts alongside the 4 Novice riders. In the middle classes, 29 Clubman and 35 Intermediate riders finished up the day.
David Matthews- Air Cooled Mono / Intermediates
All the sections were challenging especially with the stream quite high but my favourites were 7,8 and 10 on the green route.
Section 7 – a drop into the stream then a left turn up the stream over a jumble of rocks which were difficult to see because of the water. This was catching quite a few riders out so picked my line and took a dab first lap ,wider turn next lap, 3 cleans.
Section 8 – a nice long section again, ride across the stream, right turn but couldn’t see the rocks for the water so was a bit of a gamble with the line. Got it perfect every time, well happy as it was taking a few marks. The exit was tricky turning back across the stream and had me for a dab. Cracking section!
Section 10 – well loved riding this, mud roots, tight turns, tricky exit. Well after walking and taking some advice from Elwyn, you run your wheel over the rock at the exit, makes the turn easier. Advice taken four cleans.
Big thanks to every one involved, helpers, observers, had a great day’
Stephen Harding – Modern Monos / Clubman
Well where do you start with this one,
First of all as usual a huge thanks to all the Aqueduct team for putting on such a great event again, especially Russ , Mark and co for giving up there Saturday to set out the sections on a cold wet November day and all the observer’s for giving up their Sunday without whom it wouldn’t be possible to have such a great event. A big thanks to the land owner for letting us use this great venue, and Chris deburger for keeping us fed and watered,.
The day started getting everyone parked and it was a bit tight with such a good entry but the sun was shining and most were happy with the parking so with everyone in and the start with the usual talk from Russ at 11o’clock we get underway.
I was with my usual crew Tony Williams, Alan hotchkis, Alan Dyson and Oliver. We decided to start at the bottom of the wood at section 5.
This was a fairly straightforward section as you drop in through the start gate, in and climb a bit avoiding a rock and climb a bit more over some slippery roots and out of the section. Sounds easy but can catch you out,
Then into section 6, the start was almost straight after the exit from 5 where you start off from the edge of the stream, then straight away in to the water and head to the other side over some very loose good sized rocks witch were slippery and seemed to move each lap. Then out of the water, up a good sized step on to the wet slippy muddy bank then climb a bit before a left and right then a tight left before a steep drop back into the rocky stream and across out up a bit of a wall and out,
Section 3, well this one was a bit tricky for me for some reason. You start off from the now very muddy slippery bank, through the start gate and under the trees and down the slope towards the stream. Then drop into the water heading right straight away on to the lose rocks, still heading right before a bit if a left and a tight right back on to the wet slippy bank before climbing left up and out of the section. This, I took some daft dabs off me for the first three laps but managed to clean it on the last one.
Overall I had a great day and once again big thanks to everyone involved, cheers.
Alan Hotchkiss – Modern Mono / Clubman
On arrival at Nant Ucha I was greeted by Steve and Davhe Kynaston , who guided me to a parking spot on nice concrete behind the sheds (Godfather not in sight ). I promptly unloaded and headed off to sign on with the lovely ladies, ordered my customary bacon and hard egg bap,(still no Godfather), I decided I better have a whizz up and down on the 315 and boom, the Godfather………. banter, that’s better. I felt relaxed. Russ gave the meeting and we headed off to section 5 deep in the depths of the forest, welcomed by Mr Barker. It was a straight forward looking slippy off camber meander on the stream bank.
Section 6, well, starting off in a slippery stream across a small babbling rocky fall, up a steep slimes step, around a tree and a dropkick into a deep water (where on lap 2 I misplaced a front wheel resulting in a very cold wild water swim). Across the stream and exit up a greasy step.
Section 8, enter diagonal across a rock stream, up a slippery bank, 180 over a slippery hump, drop back in stream, up a step and immediate right (where I managed a stall ). Then left over rocks and out.
Section 1, pretty straight forward. Observed by Wendy, drop in the stream, 90 right up a bank, drop in, up a bank then 90 left (missed my jelly babies here ,I will bring supplies ).
Section 3 ( Russ,s section). This required 100% concentration due to banter from the clerks of the course. Steady drop in to the stream, 90 right across very loose rocks then exit up a greasy bank with a 90 left exit ( hip puller). All in all a great day and huge congratulations to everybody involved in organising this great sport.
Elwyn Beedles – Air Cooled Mono / Intermediate
After the rain on Saturday we were so blessed to have a lovely sunny day for the trial at the infamous Nant Ucha trials ground. With hardstanding parking courtesy of the Kynaston familys hard work at the venue Geoffers and the parking team had no problem marshalling some 78 riders to a parking spot. With the signing on trailer/awning and catering van already in position we were ready to go. Some folk think this just happens eh Geoff !
I get a bit excited come a Sunday so arrived early and took the opportunity to walk down to see what the team had managed to arrange for us to ride given the weather we had experienced.
The lads Russ, Mark, Barry and Paul had done a sterling job laying on 10 sections that were all challenging but rideable and safe. Talking with Suzzanne when I arrived setting out in the wet with the soft ground had not done Russ’ recently broken ankle any good and he was visibly limping on Sunday. Appreciate your commitment Russ as always.
Wendy ‘the cake queen’ Smith gave up her day to stand in the cold to watch us through section 1 at the bottom of the field with sections 2, 3 and 4 all up this smaller of the two streams. We will have to find you a chair Wendy like Ian had on section 4.
On a personal note after being fortunate enough to win the club twinshock clubman championship last year I made the somewhat bold decision to move up to the green route this year and challenge myself a little more. Resting the TLR in the garage I moved across Japan to a Yamaha TY mono which I have found a little easier to ride and turn than the Honda. I will admit I have struggled this year with the gap between the yellow and green route but at Nant Ucha I felt it coming together a little more. Russ section 3 was a prime example of the difference. After dropping down to the stream we were met with a large nasty looking tree root to get up and over. Most chose a dab at the top early doors as I did but with encouragement from Russ and Mark then managed to get over it next 3 laps. Progress.
Section 7 overseen by Tony and his lovely daughters Ffion and Niamh was a wet rock jarring affair that caught a few out. I believe both Alan Hotchkiss and Richard Webster took full advantage of the deep water to clean both their bikes and have a bath themselves. Many more of us scrambled through hoping not to hit one of the submerged rocks wrong and end up in the same predicament.
This was swiftly followed by section 8 with Nettie on the pencil ably assisted by her enthusiastic daughter Eva. First time observers it was great to see them and have a chat we all really appreciate your help. Again deep water and invisible rocks it was a real challenge to keep both wheels in the right direction but a rewarding section if it went right.
Llanfyllin trials club head honcho Elwyn Williams gave up another Sunday to observe for us and watched us through section 10 a long slippy affair with a tricky tree to negotiate at the finish. Arriving on the third lap we were greeted with Elwyn being taken up the lane by Mark in the buggy. Fearing the worst we were comforted to discover that Elwyn was okay and Dave Wood had kindly offered to take over after having a problem with his Yam. Very sporting and selfless of you Dave thank you
I rode for a while with a old mate from back in the day South Shropshires Nick Woolley on his beautiful thumping Ariel HT 500. Nick is a lovely down to earth lad who has been there, done it and got the tee shirt and is more accustomed to ACU events but he was very impressed and complimentary with the whole set up with the Accy club. Apparently Russ wanted to buy the Ariel off Nick many years ago when they were riding the Sammy Miller events but Nick wouldn’t sell. Russ has never forgiven him but they do have a good laugh about it. The camaraderie and friendships go back years in the trials game and is so heartwarming in this modern world. By his own admittance Nick did not have the best of days but still beat me hands down ! I really take my hat off to you Pre 65 boys on the big old bikes I’d never pick em up ! Respect !
One of the last riders to arrive and sign on after sorting out his farm was Plass Onn landowner Barry Jones. Having helped layout the sections he had a pretty good idea where we were going and promptly went on to win Pre 65 Inters dropping a measly 9 marks. Great ride Barry and we look forward to coming to you for the next trial.
Little Logan Price rode number 33 on the 125 Beta to finish 5th in adult mono clubman dropping only 16 marks. He is a tiny little chap but nothing beats him and he shows great commitment well done Logan.
Paul Smart rocked up on a very trick looking twin shock Fantic in place of his normal TLR. It looked and sounded better than the factory bikes of that era but unfortunately a blocked petrol tank valve spoilt his day. The bike is a credit to you Smartie.
Ian Ramsay joined us for the first time travelling over from Bala with his Beta. New to trials and a friend of Rob Slogg he chose the white route and promptly won his class. By what I saw the yellow route will beckon very soon Ian.
Another improving rider is Paul ‘Corky’ Corfield from the ‘Pontesbury trials riding academy’ riding number 34 on sunday. After dabbling a few times last year with his Cub we persuaded him to pull out his beautifully restored TY for this year and after a few outings on the white route he is finding his feet on the yellow route dropping 26 marks.
Unknown to most of us Chris De Burger had problems with the catering van in the week after discovering the fridge had fallen over presenting him with a messy scrambled egg in amongst the uncooked bacon etc. This coupled to a broken burner valve meant he was coping with a small fridge sitting on the table we normally have outside and half the cooking capacity. No body noticed and the food and service was as good as ever.
Thanks again to everyone involved and roll on the next one can’t wait !
If you have read this far (and I hope you have), you would notice this reports photo is one of our new observers. Without these folk we dont get to do our competitions so dont forget on your last lap just to tip your visor and give them a hearty “thank you”. Remember, Santa is finalising the naughty and nice list and you dont want to be on the wrong one.
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – No Riders
Intermediate – Barry Jones, BSA (9); Dave Lovell, Triumph (10); Jim Droughton, Triumph (11)
Clubman – Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (4); Mat Duff, BSA (8); Tim Lewis, Matchless (10); Keith Goodwin, BSA (10)
Novice – Paul Beswick, BSA (28); Damian Morley, Cotton (21)
Twinshock
Expert – Chris Garlick, RS220 (14); Mike Jones, Aprilla (56); Tom Austin (103)
Intermediate – Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (11); Jeremy Clark, Bultaco (13); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (16)
Clubman – Oliver Barker, Bultaco (3); Phil Cottiga, Honda (3); Mark Newman, Ossa (6)
Novice – No riders
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – Patrick Edwards, Yamaha (17); Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (33); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (57)
Intermediate – David Matthews, Yamaha (5); Jason Trumble, Honda (8); Michael Warburton, Honda (11)
Clubman – Stephen Hall, Gas Gas (2); Paul Corfield, Yamaha (26); Tony Williams, Yamaha (49)
Novice – No riders
Modern Mono
Expert – Richard Webster, Montesa (29); Jordan Bannon, Gas Gas (89)
Intermediate – Stuart Parr, Beta (17); Steve Priestley, Sherco (18); Scott Lanzi, TRS (22)
Clubman – Jeff Hughes, Beta (7); Gareth Evans, TRS (9); Ken Williams, Beta (9)
Novice – Ian Ramsey, Beta (15); Luca Lanzi, Beta (54)
A very wet day greeted the 70 riders who took the opportunity to have a fantastic days trials competition at Pen Y Graig quarry. A great showing of 21 Pre 65’s and 16 Twinshocks which form the bedrock of our classic trials club were supported by 11 AC Monos and 22 modern monos. With 9 Expert riders and 4 Novices on the start cards, it was evenly spread with the clubman and Intermediate classes with 29 and 28 respectively.
Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman
First of all as usual, a huge thanks to all the Aqueduct team for putting on such a great event again and all the observer’s for giving up their Sunday and standing out in the rain. Not forgetting Chris deburger for keeping us fed and watered.
The day started off with myself, Geoff and Ali on Car park duties stood out in the rain , it was tight but we got them all in. So at 11o’clock we had the briefing in the farm yard and then set off down the long wet and muddy track to the quarry and then set off to find a section to start from. All sections were spot on and some testing due to the wet, slippy conditions. So here are a few of my favourites.
Section 7: At the top of the quarry, you start off from the a bit of a wet muddy area and into the section. Straight away you climb up a slippery shale and rock slope to a couple of big rocks where you had to give it a bit to get over. Then drop over the other side and keep left before turning a tight right on the off camber shale then tight left between two trees while dropping down over some loose rocks and then out ,
Section 5: You start off from the main track dropping down into the section and keep it left between two trees and over a couple of loose rocks before climbing right a bit. Then drop back down before another left and fire it back up a steep slippery slope and out of the section.
Section 10: Back down to the bottom of the quarry where you start off from the the top of a steep bank which was very slippery due to the conditions. As you drop down you bare left a bit and go between two good sized rocks and drop on to the track. Cross over the track and into some deep muddy water then up left on the slippery bank before turning right and drop down and out of the section.
Overall I had a great day, thanks to everyone involved, cheers.
Paul Beswick – Pre 65 / Novice
This trial was the first time in two years that I had cocked my leg over a bike mainly down to financial and health problems. The last time I rode was here at the quarry so obviously I was more than a little nervous. Anyway, might as well jump straight in and see if I’d lost what little talent I had two years ago.
The weather was a bit daunting especially as I left home at stupid o’clock for the 100 mile drive to the venue. The torrential rain abated the nearer I got to the venue which cheered me up a bit because I hate mud with a passion. When I arrived at 10.00am the car park was almost full but I managed to find a space for my little postman Pat van. Then the rain started. Oh well “it is what it is” as someone once said. Listened to the riders briefing and put putted down to the clearing in the quarry to drop off refreshments and arrived at section 1 bricking it.
Great to see so many friends who were very encouraging and seemed to have a lot more confidence in my “talents” than I did TBH. Strangest thing was I couldn’t stop my left arm and hand from shaking for the first lap which was bloody annoying to say the least. I was only riding the white route which was great for me so nothing too horrendous or silly, apart from me getting lost a couple of times in the sections while I got my trials eyes back into action.
Russell and Mark got it spot on as far as I was concerned a perfect balance for a Septuagenarian wobbler who struggles to even remember his own name. Saying that, some of the other routes did seem to be taking marks and a few riders literally had steam rising from them while waiting at the following section. Saying that queueing was thankfully almost non existent which was great.
Again, well done to the Aqui team and the riders themselves. Why can’t all trials be like this? Anyway, by lap 2 I had settled down a bit and established a rhythm, now I knew roughly where I was going, and felt a lot more comfortable with myself. I was really enjoying myself now and apart from a couple of stupid errors mainly down to changing my mind as to the line to take halfway through a section, (note to self decide on a line through the section AND STICK TO IT), it always ends in tears when you do that.
Before I knew it it was my last lap so remembering to check with the observers and also making a point of thanking them for helping make my day so enjoyable. I trundled round and made my way back to the van taking care as much as was possible, for a 17st blob on a Bantam, to keep the revs down and pull a high gear up the climb on the way back which wasn’t easy.
I must say I’ve really REALLY missed riding my trials bike and especially the camaraderie and friendship of all the Aqueduct crew and fellow riders. I must say if anyone reading this has ever considered riding trials the give it a go especially with this club. I guarantee you’ll be made welcome although I can’t guarantee you’ll get cake as some of the crew seem to be not too distantly related to a flock of seagulls. I had a fantastic time and I’ll try not to make it another two years before I’m back assuming you’ll have me?
Mike Griffiths – Section 6
Up in my section there were some interesting bits. Some slippery and some niggly and a few mobile rocks. Some surprise dabs but a well sorted section. A few fives and some great big grins.
The Cheshire mob were trying like mad to stay clean and sadly they fippin well did. Very pleasantly surprised with no rock kickers . A good sign the message has got through and only one failure to say thanks.
Thanks lads I really enjoyed the day even if it pimply sissed down for a short while. The gortex worked for me and I stayed dry. Yes I missed out on the cake and had to put up with the De Burger flashing his legs.
There was an ‘interesting’ plant growing by the rock face and it looked like weed.. Asking a couple of riders if they though it was cannabis and one gave a rapid no it’s not ! ! ! Wonder if he is a market gardener or has a dodgy pastime ? See you all at the next trial
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – No finishers
Intermediate – Paul Owen, BSA (28); Jim Droughton, Triumph (33); Norman Tarbuck, Drayton Bantam (37)
Clubman -Paul Brimelow, Cotton (13); Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (15); Steve Jones, Triumph (16)
Novice – Paul Beswick, BSA (2)
Twinshock
Expert – Paul Smart, Fantic (61); Andrew Williams, Honda (100); Steve Williams, Aprillia (126)
Intermediate – Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (24); Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (24); Jim Williams, SWM (34)
Clubman – Kenton Hackney, Honda (15); Oliver Barker, Bultaco (15); Phil Cottiga, Honda (22)
Novice – No entrants
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – Patrick Edwards, Yamaha (54); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (64)
Intermediate – Alec Roberts, Scorpa (44); Michael Warburton, Honda (46); Paul Young, Gas Gas (46)
Clubman – Stephen Hall, Gas Gas (10); Tony Williams, Honda (50)
Novice – No entrants
Modern Mono
Expert – No entrants
Intermediate – Mike Smith, Montesa (20);Stuart Parr, Beta (36); Neil Liptrot, Gas Gas (37)
The summer break is over and the autumn / winter campaign started up with a visit to Nant Y Ffrith. It was fitting to return here as it was a favourite practice ground of Kev Williams who we lost at the end of 2022. A couple of the members had recently visited the IOM to sprinkle some of his ashes there and it was a beautiful start to the trial to see a plague remembering Kev unveiled in memory of him.
We had 76 riders turn up for signing on with 12 Pre 65s joining 18 twinshocks and 18 AC Monos. The modern mono class completed the count with 28 bikes. It was nice to see 6 novice riders enjoying the day alongside 11 experts. The middle classes consisted of 29 clubman and 30 intermediate riders.
We have a great set of reports so grab yourself a brew and read on.
Kenton Hackney – Twinshock / Clubman
A poignant beginning to the event as at the pre start talk a touching plaque tribute to Kev Williams was unveiled, well done to all involved. The Clubman route with a few new routes to savour.
Section 1: Cheeky little off camber climb onto another camber with a tricky left in between trees. Deffo a mark taker
Section 2: Ably observed by our newest young observer. A tricky drop off the road with a left turn and a rise between trees which cut up as the day progressed and a twisty right exit.
Section 3: A cambered left climb threading between rocks followed by a descent with a right exit which required good braking skills
Section 4: In the woods, the usual section with new added exit. Small descent with the same rise opposite and a tight turn another small descent and rise. A left round a tree, small descent with a right turn in the dip with a left cambered exit to the end cards
Section 5: A drop off the path, left between the markers with various ways to the exit but it was constantly changing due to rocks being misplaced
Section 6: A pleasant ride taking in stunning views brought us to a tricky small slippy climb with a left turn through over or round a hardened previous section groove/rut. Then a left turn on jagged rocks and small drop back to the road (a very good mark taking section)
Section 7: Another winding ride down to the new addition – the stream. An entry that soon became a deep rut, a small fallen tree obstacle with a turn up a slippery exit and right turn exit between trees (a welcome addition to an already excellent venue let more stream action commence)
Section 8: A tricky climb with a left turn over rocks followed by a tight exit between trees with a tree root on an angle ! definitively a mark taking section
Section 9: Ably manned by Mr Griffiths (who was well at home in the undergrowth). Tricky small drop with a little rise, a left between trees and a constant left turn before dropping into the gulley with a tricky exit climb that became easier as the day continued
Section 10: A dark weave between the trees unveiled a winding drop between trees, a right hand turn, a wall step with a right turn and a tight exit left
Dave Pengilley – Twinshock / Intermediate
After what seemed a very quick summer break it was back to it on Sunday at Nant-y-Ffrith for the latest round of the aqueduct club championship, it was good to catch up with a few riders I had not seen in a while over a coffee before the start.
Prior to the trial starting everybody gathered by section 2 for the pre-trial brief, where a plaque was to be unveiled in memory of Kev, it was nice to see and chat to Kelly and family before the unveiling, Dave Lovell said a few words and then the plaque was unveiled, Kev’s daughter placed a single rose in the vase, this proved to be very emotional for myself and many others I suspect.
Onto the action…..
Section 1: this was a nice straight forward opener but you had to concentrate to make sure the last turn was not approached too fast, just enough room to turn between the trees and a straight run to the outs.
Section 2: was a tricky section very easy to lose the front wheel on the loose earth, glanced over to Kevs plaque as I entered the section thinking about all the chats we had about the isle of man and I was glad that he had the chance to get out there, I will be paying him a visit next time I am over on the Isle of Man, up at Joeys memorial.
Section 3: which was a cracking section on the green route, although this did cause me some concern while walking it as there was a choice of lines and much discussion from Moz & Mark, on which was the best, in over the root to the right, or the smoother but slightly tighter line to the left. the left line chosen, then a turn to the left and over a selection of rocks choice number 2!!!! To the right and risk dislodging the markers, to the left bit risky, or slightly left and fire it up the middle and grabbing the brakes and making the left turn drop to the outs without knocking the observer out of his well-positioned chair. This proved to be the best line for myself which resulted in 4 cleans.
Section 6: looked slippery but it rode well, up a muddy bank, quick left turn then right up another rock-strewn bank, then a tight turn to the outs which you needed the wheels in the ruts for a smooth passage to the outs. Caught me for a dab on the last lap and with Gordon observing there was no chance it would be missed,
Onto section 7: a new one in the lower part of the wood where a lot of work had been done to be able to use it, a short run up the brook right turn up a slippery bank and sneak around a large stone, (which was getting smaller as the day went on looking at the gouges and scars on it). Dropping back between a couple of trees and turn for the outs. Russ was there on the first lap keeping an eye on his and Marks section plotting, and saw me drop my first mark of the lap under estimating just how slippery it was, a lack of concentration saw me drop 2 more on the last lap here.
Section 8: proved tricky for me as well dropping marks here on 2 of the 4 laps while others around me cleaned it with ease.
Section 9: was a long section with some technical bits going through the ins from the side made the first turn a little easier but care was needed not to clip the handlebars on the trees, bit of a run to a drop into a tight left turn over rocks then up a rise to the outs. Rode much better than it first looked.
An excellent day’s trialling with a good well thought out long lap which kept any queuing to a minimum, Thanks must go to the organisers, caterers, and to all observers old and new for putting the time and effort in so we the riders can enjoy our sport.
Paul Owen – Pre 65 / Intermediate
Aqueduct classic trials club was back in the picturesque welsh Hills of North wales and with a great turn out of riders and a nice long lap with the sun shining meant one thing….. the championship round 7 of 10. Here is 3 of the sections I rode on my BSA Bantam in the pre65 Intermediate class.
Section 3…. with a slight uphill start you entered the start gate to the left and then a sharp right turn and up a 6ft rooted slippy climb. Into a sharp left that dropped you back down a bit and across a path to some large mossy rocks like steps on a uphill climb. It was very tricky and the rocks became slippy. Once over them you had another sharp left turn that dropped you down some uncovered roots to the out gate. Not many cleaned this section. I managed it on my 2nd lap but on my 3rd lap I was over the bars. Face planted the ground and managed to get my leg trapped in the forks. God knows how. Haha.
Section 6…. you rode into the section and up a muddy rocky rise and turned sharp left. Surprisingly it was very grippy. But then you dropped down over damp greasy rocks and up a muddy clay like climb to the right that was easy to spin up on. Once you crested the top you had to be careful of the loose rocks and a groove had formed in the sticky slippy mud on the left turn towards the out gate.
Section 10…. You entered a opening in the trees and it became dark damp and slippy on the slimy uncovered tree roots as you droped down to the section. Once at the start gate you immediately droped down a very steep drop and the tree roots were all bare and felt like ice if you touched the front brake. You had to do a figure “S” between the trees on the drop down and then to a sharp right turn towards the remains of a stone wall and ride over the top of it. The rocks seemed to move every lap as well. Then you did another S bend turn on a off camber back and to the out gate.
It was a very enjoyable and challenging tricky trials. Another great venue by the club. Big thanks to all involved and to the observers for a great day out.
Ian Emery – AC Mono / Intermediate
Always a pleasure to ride at Nant Y Frith and Sunday was brilliant again. The day started with the unveiling of Kev’s memorial which was so well done by all involved and appreciated by family, club officials, and riders all deep in thought paying their respects.
A few of my favourite sections.
Section 2: A nod to Kev on entry, dropping past the memorial and onwards to a 180° left turn to approach a double root step with little run up. Once over that a swooping right turn up the bank to drop down to the end cards. Easy to get in trouble and I was pleased with 4 cleans.
Section 3: This was a tricky one. The start was a climb between two trees followed quickly by a tight left. Tyre marks showed a choice of line – either a straight up blast over a slippy angled root or a more controlled meander where keeping momentum was key. I chose the latter each lap without issue. Following that was a short traverse over some loose rocks to a collection of scary big rocks. The first two were split with a V but that line meant the next monster rock became a big step to get up and over. If you made it there was a tight left turn on a steep bank before a descent to the end cards. First lap I flew up the middle cresting the big rock and managed the turn and descent for a clean. Second and third lap I tried the same but struggled to get enough grip to launch me over the big rock without foot assistance. Fourth lap I watched Moz take a high line to the right and got on top of the big rock but slam-dunked left. With trepidation I tried to copy his line but didn’t have the strength to hold on at the crest and stalled for a 5.
Section 4: A natural hollow used before but yet another new route was set. A series of swoops, down, across, up, 180° turns in between, to a tricky steep root covered climb with little run up. Easy to fail without enough speed but also easy to hit the tree at the top with too much. Managed to go clean each time, very pleased.
Section 7: Water and mud!! Never seen before at this venue. The start was through a deepish dirty puddle into the stream, straight for a few yards before a 90° right and a blast up a sticky muddy embankment with several wheel slots to choose from. At the top was a massive rock and a choice of 3 lines for a 180° right turn – either hug the perimeter left of the rock but mind your footrest, straight over the rock, or inside it to the right. I chose the perimeter but the key to success was keeping left during the climb as slipping right would give problems. Managed 3 cleans then a slack dab on lap 4.
Section 8: This was more tricky than it looked! Through the in cards to a tight right on a camber just before a hill climb which got steeper and steeper as it threaded through the trees. If you made the first turn without the front washing out the rest was straight forward but if the front misbehaved it made the climb a lot more tricky as I found out on one lap.
Section 9: Another natural basin and a great new variation. Into the section to an immediate tight 180° right turn, dropping into a dip to a nasty climb out between two trees. Not much room for error as I found out on one lap. A meander along the top of the hollow to the far end where a drop in was followed by a slippy rocky step which was best taken at reasonable pace keeping the front wheel high and letting the rear float the step. Got it spot on twice but also had a 2 and a 1.
Some well thought out sections, I really enjoyed the day so thanks as usual to all who made it happen. Apologies to those I nearly knocked over when my Gasser kept dropping into gear by itself, launching me into the air several times. An issue caused by a broken neutral detent spring which I discovered on strip down the next day. All fixed now and ready for Pen Y Graig.
Mike Griffiths / Observer / Section 9
Returning back to haunt some of you, I was pleasantly surprised with the remarkable tribute to Kev.. One of the nicest men I have ever met in the trials world. Those who knew him will never forget that smile..
Well out to my section (9) and a bit of a cracker. Nice and easy to clean but also easy enough to get a point or 5 off the unsuspecting. The Cheshire set disappointed me and no marks dropped.. Beta Bert was really concentrating and failed to drop any score as did Pinkey Hackney. Tony Williams stopped just short of the end flags with of all things a broken timing chain . Bit of bad luck there.
One or two clenched buttock moments were had with Moz having the most interesting as the Bantam front wheel slid across a log , nearly taking Moz into the “kitty litter” (nettles) . Not quite a stop but he escaped through the end flags only to go back to his motor for an underwear change.
Some really interesting bikes and the big Ariel Nick Woolley rode was my favourite with the Panther of Les Richardson a close second. Dave Pengilly kept his Kwaka clean in more ways than one and Robin Foulkes and his rare Armstrong kept to the correct route on my section.
Sunshine and smiles were the order of the day but a few red route riders did try the luxury of brushing an arm on the trees.
In my section ?????????? Yes eyes up my what ever and miserable with it.
Any gripes from this side of the trial ? No it was a grand event , no disputes or eye batting , just a superb event and only 18% of riders forgot to say thanks.
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – No riders
Intermediate – Paul Owen, BSA (15); Nick Woolley, Ariel (18); Mike Jones, Triumph (19)
Clubman -Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (1);Andy Steele, BSA (10); Alan Dyson, BSA 32)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (14)
Twinshock
Expert – Paul Smart, Honda (20); Jim Williams, Honda (26);Andrew Williams, Honda (46)
Intermediate – David Pengilley, Kawasaki (7); Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (9); Tim Cuffin, Majesty (12)
Clubman – Phil Cottiga, Honda (7); Kenton Hackney, Honda (7); Darren Riley, Bultaco (8)
It was back in February when we last visited this incredible venue and it was great to get the riders back there for Round 6 of the club championship but also the inaugural event where the Plas Onn Trophy is contested. This has been created in memory of one of our members we sadly lost last year and will be presented for the highest placed Pre-65 Intermediate (the class contested by Kev Williams).
The event took place with weather in our favour and the 75 bikes were broken down with 22 Pre-65’s, 17 Twinshocks, 15 AC Monos and 21 Modern Monos.
Dont forget that Aqueduct Classics now has a new class for Pre 2000 water-cooled and we are looking forward to seeing this class start up!
A light entry on Experts saw only 1 riders in that class and with 3 Novices also entering the balance was made up with 40 Inters and 31 Clubman riders.
Our event report starts with a brilliant write up that gives a great insight into how your days sports actually comes together………
Jan and Geoff Jones – Organisers view
I suppose we could say the starting point for an event is the first day after the previous event. This of course is after the results are finalised, the paperwork forwarded to the AMCA making sure the permit for the next event is applied for, at the same time as ensuring all fees and insurances have been paid. And so it begins again with any issues which could be encountered to be sorted before entries are opened. This is the reason why we need to delay sometimes before opening to ensure that everything is in place. We have land owners to contact to make sure we have a venue, PR letters to write and deliver, which has become a very necessary part of appeasing local residents living in close proximity to any of our venues such as Pen Y Graig and Nant Y Ffrith. Signs to be printed and readied to advise the public of our forth coming event and notify local authorities about our presence in close proximity to footpaths.
Wednesday is bib washing day transforming the house into a look alike Chinese laundry and finding out who the culprits are that haven’t return their bib in the hope of having a guaranteed ride next time. The time taken to identify the missing bibs highlights the importance of making sure that they are returned at the end of every event.
On to the entries. We liaise with Rob Sloggett our website supremo to agree a date and time for opening the entries. Once opened we monitor the entries in our mailbox, and payments through the various payment methods which we accept. The online entry system makes it easier for us to control the number of rider where we have parking restrictions or restricted entry numbers. We inform our caterer Chris De Burger of the approximate numbers to ensure that no rider goes without his breakfast. It is also better for the rider on the day as it reduces queues at signing on gives way to a more relaxed atmosphere.
The week leading up to the event. Publish the entry list and wait for the phone to start pinging with messages either starting with “sorry but” or “any chance”. I must impress that neither of these are a problem to us. Contacting the folk that can hopefully observe for us because as you are aware these people who are so generous with their time are also instrumental in the running of the event and we cannot thank them enough. This is why it is so important that a word of thanks from the rider is really appreciated. Preparing and printing event paperwork which includes the permit, signing on sheets, observer list, riders brief, observer sheets, and entry forms with the declaration for those who turn up on the day. Time to tidy and prepare the trailer ensuring all paperwork is available in its place ready for the day. Observer bags sorted in numerical order containing observer bored, score sheet, high vis vest, radio and most importantly a working pen. Flags, start and end boards washed and accounted for.
Bright and early Saturday morning section set setters head off and spend the best part of a day finding a marking out some tasty sections for you to conquer.
Sunday morning day of the event. Up early after possibly little or no sleep worrying about the event, the parking, the neighbours and everything in between. First task is to mark the road so that we don’t have any riders going astray although this doesn’t help those who have made their way to the wrong location and are waiting for the gates to open ‘Tim Lewis’. Arriving at the venue we prepare for the onslaught of the riders trying to keep one step ahead of them. On go the officials vests and the welcoming smiles. The obligatory parking attendant shouting directions which in some cases falls on deaf ears to his dismay. Observers are taxied to their respective section in time to work out the four routes that they will be keeping a close eye on. 10:50 AM riders brief and they’re all sent on their way. All officials on most days then have to carry out their second role, to ‘man’ a section as an observer and to witness the pleasure on the smiling faces with the occasional grimace or two.
After the event. All flags are collected and observers transported back to the start area where farewells said to a happy looking group of folk, which enhances the satisfaction that it gives us of running the event. With the trailer loaded and hitched up we head homeward bound not forgetting to retrieve the orange arrows on the way. Once home the equipment is stashed and then it’s time to compile the results and reflect on a successful day.
Karl Kavanargh – Twinshock / Intermediate & Logan Price – Modern Mono / Clubman
We turned up at this familiar venue and was pleasantly surprised to find we were going to ride some new sections. Logan hasn’t ridden for a while being busy with motocross and grass track. I myself have been a bit of a winter hobby rider.
After the riders briefing, we made our way together to section 1, green route took us down a bank, along an off camber and a fairly tight and tricky turn at the end. I managed to clear it as I did all-day but Logan had a 5 straight away loosing grip on the tight turn.
We then carried onto section 2 which, I think, was Gordons section. A steep climb and turn out on an off camber, didn’t give me any problems during the day but took a couple of marks off Logan.
Over to, I think section 3, which was observed by Dave. Under the close scrutiny of Ian Emery and followers I managed to negotiate the dusty turn off the bank although later in the day I lost traction for a 5. Logan didn’t seem to have any problems on this section only dropping a 3.
Section 4, if I have this right was observed by a lady and took 5 points from Logan but didn’t seem to give me any trouble. Section 5 was a pleasant ride across the field to the very bottom of the site usually very wet and slippery. A drop into a small gully with a tricky climb out, I managed to 5 this twice, once fumbling the exit and falling in the ditch. Second 5, Logan told me ” that I had missed the start marker”, steady ride for Logan dropping 6.
Short ride up the field to section 6 which was observed by one of my old yellow route competitors Steve Blackburn, this was quite a tricky zig zag along the stream bed which I had a steady ride on and Logan dropping 6 marks.
A dry ride for a change up to section 7 with Mark Samuel observing. Logan had a great ride on this not dropping any points, where as I hesitated and lost a few points. Back down onto the lane to meet our local hero John Sowden at the bridge over the stream section 8.
This was a zig zag up and down the banks with a tricky for me 90 degree climb out. Only managed to take a couple of points of me where-as Logan cleaned it. After getting our pictured taken with John we arrived at section 9 with Russ observing a loose rocky ride up the stream with another dreaded 90 degree turn out. I manage to only drop 4 points here which I was happy with, Logan commented he enjoys these types of sections and had a steady ride with 6 points.
Last section, 10. Tricky climb with a turn at the top of the bank I fumbled it once and watched Jed take a good tumble on it, Logan dropped a few points on this section but no 5’s. Shortly after this we got split up and Logan managed the last 3 laps all by himself with me checking in with observers asking has number 6 come through with Gordon commenting he just been through here like a bat out of hell.
Great trial big confidence booster for Logan with many of his regular friends riding championship events further afield, we are happy just to get out as much as possible.
Thank you to all observers and Aqueduct team for giving us a great day out.
Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman
I got there early to help out with setting up and parking, nice bacon butty and a decent brew from Chris DeBurger to start the day. It was great to see you all and say good morning on arrival and point everyone down to Geoff to get you all parked up,
Start time 11 o’clock with a briefing from the main men ,some good father son banter. So we get underway, my usual crew, Tony Williams and Alan Hotchkis with Alan Dyson made our way down to the bottom field to start at section 5,
Section 5: You start off from the bank of the stream and drop down a bit into the water and straight up the opposite bank over some exposed roots out on to the opposite side, then tight 180 left and drop back down between two trees in to the stream and a tight right on to the slippery rocks. Then follow the stream up over the very slippery loose rocks and then a left back up the bank and out of the section. Sounds easy but can catch you out.
Section 7: After coming off the main track up the very off camber bank up to the start you enter into the section and straight away you are on some very dry almost sand like soil. Just follow the ruts and turn right up over some roots and carry on up the slippy trail and then reach a bit of a ridge before turning a tight left between two trees then drop back down the very off camber bank. Then out of the section, I thought that getting in and out of the section was harder than the section itself, haha.
Section 9: One of the toughest of the day I thought, You start off from the opposite side of the stream from the observer (Russ) where you drop down a bit into the section. Straight away into the water where you turn left then straight away up the stream, over some good sized rocks which had moved on every lap. Then up a bit of a step before turning a tight right round the large tree and the up the slippery bank and out of the section,
I dropped quite a few preventable dabs on the day but that’s how it go’s some times, overall I really enjoyed the day. Sections were spot on as usual. Big thanks to all the aqueduct team for putting on such a great event again and all the observer’s for giving up there Sunday. Well done everyone.
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
We now move into the Summer Break so have a rest and see you all back in September.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – No riders
Intermediate – Norman Tarbuck, Dratyon Bantam (2); Jim Droughton, Triumph (8); Carl Winstanley, James (12
Clubman – Steve Jones, BSA (8); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (21); Stephen Leyshon, James (27)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, BSA (7); Kevin O’Toole, BSA (51)
Twinshock
Expert – Tom Austin, Honda (54)
Intermediate – Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (8); Paul Whittaker, Fantic (9); Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (13)
Clubman – Phil Cottiga, Honda (7); Kenton Hackney, Honda (8); Oliver Barker, Bultaco (11)
Novice – No riders
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – No riders
Intermediate – Ian Tracey, Ossa (2); Keith Burgess, Yamaha (6); Michael Warburton, Honda (14)
Clubman – Rob Adams, Fantic (14); Stephen Hall, Gas Gas (29); Paul Corfield, Yamaha (47)
Novice – No riders
Modern Mono
Expert – No riders
Intermediate – Mark Blackwell, Beta (5); Mike Smith, Montesa (13); Stuart Parr, Beta (15); Craig Tarbuck, Beta (15)
Clubman – Ken Williams, Beta (7); Gareth Evans, Vertigo (9);
Running a trials club in 2023 is dependant on many thing, observers being a key one, but having access to the right land is always crucial and therefore whilst not totally desirable the club put a cap of 60 riders on this event due to an underlying concern with noise levels reported by a local neighbour. We would like to start this report by thanking all of the riders for their conduct at this event.
The 59 riders who were lucky to get a place were a good spread across the classes with 11 Pre 65’s and 15 Twinshocks riding alongside 13 AC Monos and 20 Modern Monos. Clubman was the biggest class with 29 riders taking the yellow route. The 3 beginners and 4 Experts were wrapped up with an additional 23 Intermediate riders.
Michael Jones – Pre 65 / Intermediate
Really enjoyed it. I was riding Pre 65 Intermediate, the first few sections went really well considering how hungover I was. The cub and I was enjoying the shaded quarry and I was enjoying the strong banter from fellow competitors. As the bike and myself got hotter, the bike wouldn’t start as the clutch slipping (turns out don’t put 50 20 oil in primary chain)! After 20 mins of kicking I decided to bump it and off we went!
Gordon’s (Section 5) was my favourite. A rocky right – right went well if your line was right, followed by a tight left and a right turn on a dusty camber. Always fun these winding sections that they manage to craft so well. By lap 3 I was becoming a competent bump starter, especially as bike was now stuck in 1st gear as gear leaver threaded!
Another stand out section was Marks (Section 8). A steep decent and some tight turns later on while keeping a look out for the camouflaged flags was very entertaining. Slept well after that one.
Mike Smith – Modern Mono / Intermediate
As promised a quick recollection of sections 1&2 through the green route from Sunday.
Section 1 – Through the entrance gate and into some soft mud before climbing up over an inverted brick onto a small ridge, through the greens flags and follow the ridge to the right. The path then dropped down to right and climbed sharply to the left, it looked loose but in reality there was loads of grip thanks to the beautiful weather that we were blessed with. Care had to be taken when exiting the section as too much throttle on the first lap had the front wheel inadvertently pointing at the sky which made Mr Williams laugh a bit.
Section 2 was a bit more challenging. Through the entrance gate and over some small branches that had been cut down to slow the approach to a steep embankment which again had plenty of grip. Whilst walking the section and watching a few riders go through it became apparent that momentum was required to breach the bank, several people had a few problems on the first lap but they all managed to stay feet up as they snaked towards the top. The section then dropped down to the left through the trees and then immediately back uphill towards the exit gate.
Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman
As usual a big thanks to everyone involved and all the observer’s for giving up the Sunday so we can do what we love doing, all the aqueduct team for putting on such a great event again and all involved behind the scenes for putting in the hours to make it happen, Russ and Mark for setting up the sections on Saturday, appreciate all the effort you guys put in.
What a beautiful morning and setting to start the day with. I got there early to help out with the parking, myself and Ali stood on the road to welcome all the riders and show them where to park, a different car park to normal as the farm yard was busy but I think it worked really well on the field as it was so dry with plenty of space.
Then the start at 11 o’clock and made our way down to the quarry where all fuel and bags were dropped off to help out with minimal riding back up to help out with noise reduction for the neighbours.
So here are a few of my favourite sections,
Myself Toni, Alan and Oliver were instructed to start off at section 5 as everyone was told where to start to limit queuing and I think this format worked really well,
Section 5 – At the top of the quarry, you start off on a bit of a flat and go straight into the section. Start over a bit of rough ground then up a bit of a loose bank and a tight right through the flags. Then over some loose rocks and up over a good sized rock onto a bit of a tight left on loose shale before climbing right up to the top and over some good sized rocks and along to the exit. Gordon on watch so best behaviour was needed, lol.
Then on to section 6 – Russ on watch so concentrate. You start off again from a bit of a flat and up into the section on some loose gravel and turn tight left in-between 2 small trees. Then along right a bit before climbing up over some good sized very loose rocks, easy to dab if not concentrating, then along some more rocks in an off camber bank and out the section.
Then a short blast to 7 – Sue on watch. You start off again from a bit of a flat then straight down into a big dip and straight up over a good sized rock and out on to loose shale. Turn left and down into a bit a gully before a tight right then up over some good sized rocks between two trees then along a bit and over a log before climbing right up the bank and out of the section.
That was just 3 of the sections, all were spot on, and was hard to choose from.
Well done to all the aqueduct team once again,
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert –
Intermediate – Pete Edwards, Drayton Bantam (1); Mike Jones, Triumph (4); Dave Lovell, Triumph (14)
Clubman -Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (0); Steve Jones, BSA (1); Stephen Leyshon, James (3)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (2)
Twinshock
Expert – Mike Jones, Aprillia (61)
Intermediate – Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (1 T); Adrian Kent, Bultaco (1 T); Jeremy Clark, Bultaco (2)
Clubman – Owain Charles, Majesty (0); Oliver Barker, Bultaco (1); Kenton Hackney, Honda (5)
Novice – Graham Seagar, Bultaco (37)
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (10); Patrick Edwards, Yamaha (16)
Intermediate – Alec Roberts, Scorpa (0); Jason Trumble, Honda (1); Michael Warburton, Honda (2)
Clubman – Stephen Hall, Gas Gas (5); Elwyn Beedles, Yamaha (6); Tony Williams, Scorpa (20)
Novice –
Modern Mono
Expert – Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (3)
Intermediate – Mike Smith, Montesa (2); John Warren Roberts, Beta (3); Neil Liptrot, Gas Gas (11)
Clubman – Andrew Dean, Beta (0 T); Ken Williams, Beta (0 T); Gareth Evans, Vertigo (0 T)
A welcome return to Nany Y Ffrith saw 108 riders unload an incredible collection of bikes for yet another classic trial event. The 34 Pre 65 bikes and 27 Twinshocks were accompanied by 12 Air Cooled Monos and 35 Modern Monos
Across the routes, we had18 Experts and 44 Intermediates with 39 Clubman and 7 Novice riders. Modern Mono (Clubman) and Pre 65 (Inters) tied as the biggest classes with 17 riders apiece.
Paul Owen – Pre 65 / Intermediate
This trials was a full house with well over 100 riders and the venue helped massively as it was spread out. I was on the pre65 intermediate green route on my BSA bantam. Here are 3 of my best and worse sections.
Section 3. You entered the start gate towards the right and with a tight left turn you got on the gas and up a steep climb to a tight right over the ridge and dropped back down avoiding 2 big rocks. Then into a gentle left and full gas again up the next climb that crossed another path . At the top it was a steep drop to the right and with the brakes on full and sliding down the loose shail you had to try get as far right to the flag and the turn left to the out gate. I cleaned it 3 times and a 5 from missing the last flag by inches but the exit was either going to be a clean or a big 5 trying to get to the out gate. It turned out I did the last lap with a flat front tyre. So that didn’t help things.
Section 4. You started on the flat then up a tree rooted off camber bank and onto the next level. With a cambered right turn on loose ground you had a steep climb up to a foot high vertical step. Timing with the throttle was critical as too much and it spun out and to little wouldn’t get you up the step. Once up you turned sharp left right left between trees to the drop down to the out gate.
Section 10. This was a short section but was over slippy bare tree roots and moss covered rocks that looked like an old collapsed wall. You rode into the section and onto the roots and rocks that wanted to kick the wheels to the opposite of were you wanted to go. If you got the first bit wrong then you would struggle with the right and left turn and the rocks were moving around every lap. You just had to lean back and keep the front light to just get to the out gate. Again the flat front tyre didn’t help over the bumpy bits. I was dreading seeing the scores but ended up 3rd.
Big thanks to the club, the observers and all involved. And I’d like to pass on my deepest sympathies to the family of Albert Higgins. Albert loved his trials from being a good rider to observing in his later years.
Albert observing at a previous trial
Tony Williams – Modern Mono / Novice
What a great trial at Nant y Frith , I dropped to white route as I cant take risks with the wife very ill, but really enjoyed it ridding with my mates.
Section one, a run in off road, a tight right up to a high root. This did unbalance you. Dropped 2 so old man says.
Section 2 Brians, a tight little section in-between tight trees, another 3
Now down to Section 3 with Ian in charge. Straight run in, over roots, tight right then another tight to outs. cleared it.
Now a jump to Section 7, with Mark. Easy but it tripped you up going over roots. Went clean but lap 4 dropped 5.
Now up to Section 9 with Russ in charge. A tricky one from the ins, down bank then a right turn off camber. Had to be smooth on throttle. Bloody hell cleaned it!
Now Section 10, Sue in charge. Looked very easy but loose rocks and roots catch you out.
What a great trial, really enjoyable trial and not had a bad one yet, well done you lot, you get it right. Thankyou
Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 / Intermediate
Nant y Frith woods is a great venue with a nice long lap to try and spread the field out a bit.
The green route held a few more challenges than I am used to, so proved to be a tough, but thoroughly enjoyable day! My score was in the 50’s, and towards the bottom end of the class. Some of the riders on the same route managed to stay in single figures. I didn’t finish until 15.45, and I wasn’t the last rider by a long way. Special thanks to the observers for sticking it out for so long!
Section 1 – I could not get the turn around the boulder at the start without putting a foot, or feet, down.
Section 2 – The easy section, 4 cleans.
Section 3 – An easy climb, over some roots, then down, between two trees, then a steep loose uphill to another tree. Turn right around this and then gravity took over, but there was a right/left slalom to get to the end gates in which gravity was not your friend!
First attempt a navigational error saw me heading up the red route, and failing to correct sufficiently for a 5. Second attempt a safety dab at the end to stop me from falling over. Third attempt, too fast round the tree and skidded outside the flag. Last attempt, perfect.
Section 4 – The bike did all the work, 4 cleans.
Section 5 – A simple slalom in and out of the bombhole, with a step followed by a tight right to catch you out if you weren’t careful. I was, 4 more cleans.
Section 6 – I made this far harder than it needed to be, and fived it twice.
Section 7 – A couple of needless dabs on the loose rocks in the bottom.
Section 8 – Over a log, tight between two lots of trees, then up a steep bank, turn sharp right at the top and back down past a large boulder.
On lap 2 I tried to give myself a wider line over the log, but succeeded in dropping the front wheel in a cleft between two roots and stopped dead. Well, the bike did.
On lap 3 I slid into the boulder at the end. I could have ridden it out, but my fork leg definitely wouldn’t have thanked me.
Section 9 – Paddled through on the first 3 attempts, but managed to clean it at the end.
Section 10 – Loose, slippery rocks. Dabs were needed sadly.
The weather was perfect, I suspect the trial would have taken on an entirely different complexion had it been inclement.
Huge thanks again to everyone that makes it happen.
David Riley – AC Mono / Intermediate
A great day was had again as usual, with a good deal of banter going on before the start and Dave Lovell showing a plaque which is going to be mounted on the site in Rememberance of Kev Williams.
All was going well and then the drama started as I started my Pinky which ran for a minute or so and died? I shouted a couple of expletives at the bike but that didn’t help. Then I thought who else has a Yamaha? The first person to my mind was Elwyn Beedles, who provided me with a spare plug and a metric adjustable spanner. The Pinky started first kick. Thanks Elwyn.
The sections were great providing a good mix of terrain and difficulty. Here are 3 that took my marks
Section 1 – Up a steep bank to a left turn and into a tight ish right handed that had a number of roots and rocks to spoil your progress, up the bank and over a couple of steps and roots. At the top, back down to left 180 turn and back up the hill. Up a step between 2 trees and having to get to the right to give you the best line over a step and into a tight uphill 180 to the right and out of the end markers
Section 3 – Quite a simple section, a right turn through the trees to line up for a blast up uphill onto a plateau before heading back down hill around a tree and back up hill with a step in the bank and around around a tree this is where a lot of people were dabbing steadying themselves for a tight steep downhill turn through a gate to the right of the normal path and out. I cleaned this 3 times easily but on the last attempt which was my last section of the day, I got this all wrong and found myself on my hands and knee with bike in a pile at side of me. Tip of the day – Never take any section for granted!!
Section 6 – In through the Start gate over a couple of muddy rocks and up a bank with a nastily placed rock and root. Once on top of the bank you had to be to the right of the line otherwise there was a rock that stopped progress and was taking marks. Turn left through the muddy rocks and slightly uphill to a slippy right turn with a couple of well placed rocks to negotiate. Once over the rocks turning left and down the muddy hill to the end gates
Really enjoyed the day and even went for a quick pint on the way home
Cheers all
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – Chris Garlic, BSA (11); Jim Hough, Triumph (21); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (34)
Intermediate – Pete Edwards, Drayton Banton (18);Tony Bradley, BSA (18); Paul Owen, BSA (21)
Clubman – Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (14); Jordan Hobbis, Triumph (15); Steve Jones, BSA (17)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (7); Paul Corfield, Triumph (20)
Twinshock
Expert – Richard Webster, Fantic (9); Ian Jones, Fantic (41); Paul Smart, Honda (42)
Intermediate – Jerry Hawker, Honda (8); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (9); Robin Foulkes, Armstrong (18)
Clubman – Kenton Hackney, Honda (21); Phil Cottiga, Honda (22); Oliver Barker, Bultaco (25); Darren Rilley, Bultaco (25)
Novice – Graham Seagar, Bultaco (76)
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – Patrick Edwards, Yamaha (4)
Intermediate – Paul Edwards, Fantic (7); Dave Riley, Yamaha (9); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (13)
Clubman – Stephen Hall, Gas Gas (19); Ian Thomas, Honda (35)
Novice – no riders
Modern Mono
Expert – Tony Gush, Gas Gas (6); Hayden Rainford, Montesa (34); Mark Diggle, TRS (61)
Intermediate – James Edwards, Gas Gas (5); Mike Smith, Montesa (6); Sean Mountford, Montesa (8)
Clubman – Jeremy Sutton, Beta (12); Gareth Edwards, Vertigo (16); Ken Williams, Beta (16)
Novice – Tony Williams, Scorpa (15); David Evans (17)
Its always nice to get back to Nant Ucha Farm. A lot of us know it as a practice venue and have used it to develop our skills (or lack of them) but March 2023 saw a welcome return and with the Bultaco still in bits I grabbed a board to observe and grab some video footage for possible projects.
With parking being tight on the hard standing (although fortunately we were able to use the top field), entries restricted but that did not stop 76 riders getting a place on a cold but dry day.
19 Pre 65’s rubbed shoulders with 23 Twinshocks and 15 Air Cooled Monos. A final tally of 19 Modern Monos made up the numbers.
We continue to develop new blood with 4 Novice riders (2 on Pre 65 and 1 on Twinshock) developing their skills to join the 25 Clubman riders in the future. Experts saw 14 riders in place (3 Pre 65 and 6 Twinshock) with 33 riders contesting the Intermediate class.
Michael Griffiths – Observer Section 2
What a grand start to the day. Plenty of parking and some smiling faces. Sadly the shorts were still in the butty van but his pretty assistant more than made up for the sight of dodgy knees. Walking down to my section I came across Allan Jones trying to get his bike going.. Yes he was surrounded by helping hands but alas ‘Mr Nice Guy’ failed to start. Section 2 was my destination and what a cracker it was. Easy, but easy to drop a mark as Jim Hough was to prove. There were rumours going round one of the riders had a chain reaction and was in a huff (should that be spelt Hough ?) about it !
Back to 2 and some good riders were watched with Chris Garlic on the C15 who was a pleasure to watch. OK I’m a BSA fan. A dab from Chris Gascoigne was a surprise though. Then we had one or two riders that thought they were Man United goalkeepers ? Yes Elwyn Beedles ,Patrick Edwards, Johnathon Hughes, Tom Austin Devey , Davw Wood and Bert White all let 7 go past them. The ever smiling Tony Williams nearly swore when he damned near missed a gate and utterances were heard.I think it’s time you lads did something about Peter Rusco and stop his winning ways. Let his tyres down if need be.
Sadly there were some queues on 2 but I think that was down to it being a long section. All in all an enjoyable day with plenty of smiling faces . Non more than Sophie Meredith who at the end of the trial was going round to see if she could help pick up a section. What a fine example of todays youth. Thanks all for a grand day and just a bit of banter now and then.
Mark Gaskell – Twinshock / Intermediate
Before I built the Triumph, I used to ride a Whitehawk 175, which unfortunately then found itself pushed to the back of the shed. It had been rebuilt with all the best of the bits that I had, then did a brief spell as a beginners bike for Talei, my stepdaughter. Deciding that it was too precious for the abuse it was getting (it was me who taught her to ride after all), I got her a more modern bike (thanks Rob) and once more relegated the Whitehawk to the back of the shed. Until couple of weeks ago, when we had a re-arrange, and the bike once more saw daylight! Put some fresh fuel in and she fired up second kick. I had a potter around the garden, and remembered how much I enjoyed riding it, and decided that I should enter the next trial on it for a laugh. I had acquired a better kickstart shaft a while ago and decided I would fit that first, only a five minute job after all. Taking the sidecase off I was surprised at how much surface rust there was on the gears. Run those old engines regularly folks, to get the oil circulating! The kickstart assembly has a “idler return spring”, best described as a cut off r-clip, which should clip to the back of the idler gear. Mine was a bit tired, and kept falling off as I put the assembly back in the case, causing much consternation and swearing. Eventually I got it to stay on with a dab of grease, and put it all together. Just as an aside, said spring costs less than a fiver, and I really should know better.
This long intro is to make up for the lack of writing about the riding, as after one and a half laps, that spring fell off and jammed the idler gear, necessitating a long push back to the van. We won’t mention spare bikes, walkie-talkies (and their ability to summon a tow if you were to use one), or fitness levels, will we? Thank you.
My favourite sections:
Section 4: A meander into a downhill left turn, over slippery off camber roots, up a short climb then round a couple of trees and back down to the end. The roots were taking no prisoners, but I thought I could lift the front end of the Whitehawk up and over if I timed it right. In the section I found that a well positioned safety dab worked better and got through for one.
Section 5: At the far end of the woods, drop right down into the stream, the right again in the stream bed before a rock step that looked scary but rode easily, then climb left on a slick rock slab before exiting in the stream bed again. I think I had a silly couple of dabs on lap one, but managed to clean it on my second attempt.
Section 9: Short, rooty climb, to a left turn down and across a steep off -camber, then tight right around a tree to another steep climb with no run up. The Whitehawk flew through this section both times I asked it to, but it was after the second attempt that the clip fell off and my day effectively ended.
My thanks again to all concerned with the running of the events, we really do appreciate it!
Rob Sloggett – Observer Section 7
With the introduction of VAR in top flight football, it was about time observer disputes were settled with good old bodycam technology. So armed with two GoPro cameras I walked my section to get a feel for the routes, popped one camera down looking at the complex bit and the other one on a hand held and waited for my first victim (sorry rider). Actually the cameras were with me for two reasons. Firstly I had just bought a new one and wanted to get a feel for the quality but also to make some content to share on the club facebook page so don’t worry, it wasn’t used to verify your scores!
So what of the section? At the bottom of the woodland before you moved across into “the new area”, sat looking at the wall that is my Nant Ucha nemesis, it was good to see that it wasn’t being used. Everyone had the same exit with Experts having a slightly more complex set of turns to approach it but the main action was in the first 1/3rd for Greens and Red and the middle third for whites and yellows.
So whites on paper looked straight forward. Drop in, straight line up the stream then a small bank and straight climb out. After a bit of a look, the entrance was actually a bit more complex. Its great watching the novice class as these are the future of the club and with 3 out of the 4 riders on Pre 65 and Twinshock things looks healthy. Graham and Sophie had a great progressive day building confidence each lap.
Yellows, came in lower down with a very defined set of gates to bring them into the stream and force an across stream turn with a number of medium sized rocks which the modern monos with their peaky power delivery found much harder that the more sluggish older bikers. A really interesting turn of events. Whilst the section resulted in a lot of cleans where marks were being dropped it was mostly in the 3 or 4 points across the 4 laps (so a singe dab) and looking at the video footage it was either in the early part of the stream for the modern bikes or in the mid phase for the others.
Greens (my usual class) looked very tasty on the first walk around. The first challenge that was posed as the riders hit the section was clarification on the entrance. After the start gate a tight line to the first challenge would be to follow the first pair of yellows but without this constraint they could run out wide with a more natural run up the bank. Any rider that asked was advised that I would accept a “reasonable”arch but not to take the mick! After the bank and a right turn they dropped back into the stream at 90 deg to the water flow to then have a bank step with exposed roots. I was expecting this to be more of a challenge but most riders approached it with confidence. Once again the video footage was interesting looking at the different techniques, Some riders just allowed the front wheel to run up the bank whilst other favoured a lift of the wheel. After the bank was a 180 turn and drop back in but then a blind sighted right hand tight turn to approach the climb out. A large outcropping rock blocked the view and took a number of dabs to the unaware. Where it wasn’t a clean, it was very much low losses but interestingly the AC Monos faired best with everyone clean apart from Steve B with a single dab. Looking at the results, in the Twinshock Inter class, 4 points separated the top 3 positions (22,25 & 26) with the riders taking 5, 1 and 1 respectively on my section.
Now I love watching the Experts, as well as learning from their lines and technique, generally speaking their is a different level of determination and competitiveness! Now Expert riders come in one of two forms. Firstly there is the “pack animal”. These travel around in groups , walk the section together discussing lines, ride the section, watch their mates then tell the observer if they think their mate 5’d it because their wheel went just over a flag and you have to mark consistently and by the rules. The second type is the “lone wolf”. These fly low under the radar and celebrate their good lap and laugh when they get it wrong. They are my favourite……
My section had a brilliant Expert route. Whilst the bank had a detour with a left cross bank change in direction over some challenging terrain, the drop into the stream and the root step raised a problem based on flag position. The natural option was to approach at a diagonal with the bank adjacent to the right hand side of the bike but with a bike tree at the entrance it was a high risk approach which took marks of a lot of riders. An alternate approach was straight on to the bank but the flags bordered a large rock about one and a half bike lengths from the bank which you had to hit and either maintain lift on the front wheel to clear the bank or drop the front wheel then immediately lift it again. A few riders demonstrated perfect technique on this and when executed perfectly was an absolute joy to watch. Once again, looking at the top 2 spots on Pre 65 Experts, the final scores were 2 and 5 respectively with the top placed rider cleaning the section but second place picking up a score of 3
Stephen Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman
First of all as usual a big thanks to all the aqueduct team for putting on another great trial , Mark & Sam for setting out the sections and all the observer’s for standing out in the freezing cold , Chris deBurger for keeping us fed and watered and the land owner for letting us use the venue,
I got there early to help set up and with the car parking and as we got there it started to snow and I thought we were in for a right cold day but it soon started to brighten up as all the riders began to arrive, soon it was time to get ready for the start, it was good to see Russ back giving out the instructions for the day , 10 laps 4 sections
All sections were testing but great and was hard to choose my favourites but here are a few of my favourite sections of the day,
Section 2: You started off from the field and as you pass through the start gate you head down towards the brook but it was a bit of an off camber bank and over a slippery root just to get your attention and drop straight into the brook and keep left over some good sized rocks to the other side tight right round inbetween the tree and the high bank then over some more rocks in the brook to the right up the bank again before dropping back into the rocky brook along a bit more over some more slippery rocks before turning tight right up a steep slippery slope and out of the section,
Section 5: Rite down at the bottom of the woods you cross the stream to the start, you started on the bank and drop down a bit of a slope before turning tight right on to the rocks at the edge of the water before navigating some more larger slippery rocks then back out on to the bank on the right along a bit of a narrow path before climbing up onto a large boldor an a steep drop back into the rocky stream , and they were very loose and could easily catch you out the through the end gate ,
Section 7: Rob on watch and giving out some good advice while filming, Only a short but tricky section this one ,as you start off from the bank you immediately drop down into the water and onto the loose slippery rocks as you head over towards the bank on the opposite side and turn tight right back into the water and rocks across to the other side and then give it a bit of gas to get you up the bank and out of the section,
Overall I had a great day even though I broke my front brake at this venue again, but still managed to finish, and once again big thanks to everyone involved, and everyone who took photos and videos of all the riders, (I don’t think I’ve seen so many of one trial, ) well done,
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thankyou to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – Chris Gascoine, BSA (2); Chris Garlick, BSA (5); Jim Hough, Triumph (10)
Intermediate – Mike Jones, Triumph (21), Paul Owen, BSA (28); Paul Hornsby, James (36);
Clubman – Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (19T), Paul Brimelow, Cotton (19T), Alan Dyson, BSA (59)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (19); Paul Corefield, Triumph (45)
Twinshock
Expert – Richard Webster, Fantic (4); Paul Smart, Honda (20); Mike Jones (31)
Intermediate – Jerry Hawker, Honda (22); Robert Reese, Honda (25); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (26)
Clubman – Phil Cottiga, Honda (10); Kenton Hackney, Honda (22); Darren Riley, Bultaco (22)
Novice – Graham Seager, Bultaco (105)
Air Cooled Mono
Expert – Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (7); Patrick Edwards, Yamaha (21); Steve Williams, Honda (42)
Intermediate – Mark Backwell, Yamaha (10); Michael Warburton, Honda (11); Dave Riley, Yamaha (12)
Clubman – Ian Thomas, Honda (48); Tony Williams, Scorpa (83)
Novice –
Modern Mono
Expert – Owen Edwards, Gas Gas (8); Hayden Rainford, Montesa (26)
Intermediate – Mike Smith, Montesa (19); Stuart Parr, Beta (40); Neil Liptrot, Gas Gas (44)
Clubman – Jack Edwards, Gas Gas (10); Gareth Evans, Vertigo (13); Burt White, Beta (18)
In the 80’s, Nina sang about “99 red balloons”, well not every trials bike is red but the lovely Honda in the picture above was one of 99 bikes that turned up at Nany y Ffrith on Sunday 6th November for a fantastic event.
19 Pre 65’s and 29 Twinshocks shared the sections with 18 AC Monos and 32 modern monos. We also has a very modern electric mono join the event. The classes were made up of 3 novices, 40 clubman, 41 inters and 15 experts.
Ian Emery- Air Cooled Mono / Intermediate
As soon as I arrived, I walked into a ribbing from Geoff about me missing the last competition with a “runny nose”. His words not mine, haha. I haven’t missed many since 2010 and I was so glad I rode on Sunday despite having doubts about my energy levels as I recover. Anyway, excuses over, armed with a bottle of Lucozade, and practice buddies Paul and Steve riding with me, here’s how my day went.
Section 1: Suzanne on duty here and the section began with a small climb to a rock step with a nasty exposed shiny root on the top, a drop off the far side of the rock, and across to a narrow gate between two trees with an immediate 90° left, up through another gate to a tight 90° right and out. Think I had 3 cleans and then had a tree hugging moment after dropping off the first step, when the slippy root skewed me sideways and into the tree.
Section 2: Steve observing here. Started with a fairly severe looking hillclimb which had me debating whether to use 1st or 2nd and I chose to let it buzz in 1st and found grip every time. At the crest of the climb was a short cross camber before turning right to fly back down again to the ends. The ground was loose and littered with pine straw which gave the sensation of me never quite being in control but I made it for 4 cleans.
Sectiion 3: Dave in charge. A nadgery, twisty start over damp mossy ground to then go up and over the remains of a wall with exposed slippy roots, and immediately make a tight 270° full lock right turn to the ends. Tricky here to stop the front washing out. Cost me a couple of dabs.
Section 4: A twisty meander around the edge of a dip with a sharp drop-in, complicated by a hop over a log on the way down. Tricky bit was controlling the kick from the log on the rear wheel as as soon as that happened it was a 90° tight left with the front pushing against the far bank. A short double climb at an angle finished the section. Managed 4 cleans.
Section 5: Mark on duty here. Began with a short climb over a slippy log to turn right and follow cross camber along, down and up to a nasty tight right hander between two trees and out. Slack dab on the first lap, then 3 cleans.
Section 6: Christine sheltering from the rain in the truck. Section started with a steep then gentle descent leading to a very tight left and immediate steep climb of maybe 10 ft. I watched some take a low line for the turn but the front always washed out whereas others tried a tighter line which was tricky as it was slightly going back on yourself whilst being very steep, no run up and not much grip. A 180° turn at the top followed by a twisty route between trees led to the ends. Two 1s and two cleans for me taking a tight line.
Section 7: Julian holding the pen. A short entry to a hop over a log to a swooping uphill right turn on the camber and then thread between various trees to the ends. On the cross camber turn there was a sticky-up stump which I hit twice and lost marks or rode above it for two cleans.
Section 8: Under Michael’s piercing gaze, a reasonably straightforward twisty, turny section which I cleaned 4 times though one of our little group did manage to go the wrong way and get a 5.
Section 9: Rob in charge. Started with a steep, slippy, root covered climb with very little grip so momentum and a trailing throttle seemed the best way. A very tight right turn at the top led you down and across to the far bank where a short climb up the bank and over a log set at an angle led you then to a left, back down and across to a tight right turn between two trees and out. First lap for me, feet up all the way but went the wrong side of a tree which earned me a 5. Rob wasn’t going to miss that. I did better on following laps but still shed a few.
Section 10: Gordon’s section. The route took you down a bank and part way up the far side to turn left between red/blue flags before swooping down and across to pick up the next green flags which took you along, right, and 180° left to drop back into a dark hole with a big rock step to clear and a big unfriendly tree right in your line of sight. Two cleans, two 1s.
Have to say I really enjoyed the day though I was exhausted by the end. My best lap was 1 dab, if I’d done that 4 times, I’d still have finished 4th in the class with the top three having excellent rides. Thanks as usual to all the organisers, observers, and especially Russ and Mark for setting sensible but challenging sections. Roll on Plas Onn.
Dave Wood – Twinshock / Expert
After missing the last event due to a clash of dates it was good to be back at Nant-y-Ffrith, a great venue with a fair bit of section variety and one I like a lot. I’d entered on my Bultaco but decided to give my older 310 Ossa a try out before its last trial in a couple of weeks before going on the bench for some overdue engine work. That raised the dilemma, red route might be a bit much on this bike, common sense said go to green – sod it, red it is then.
Section 1: Off to section 1 from the van and noticed the clutch was slipping when I gave it a fist full. Back to the van, adjust clutch springs, back to section 1. Good section. This was a short climb off the track, over a greasy rock which was taken at an angle and not square on, tricky, between two trees and up a steep 8’ rock face with a tight left at the top over some embedded rock and a couple of biggish roots, needed to be line perfect here. Then a short descent, a U turn and back up over another small slab and a tight left behind a tree, more roots and embedded rock before a tight right and out between two trees. Looks ok I thought but no room for error, need to be online or it’s dabsville city. Whilst looking at the rock slab from the top, I heard a commotion behind and looked around to catch the aftermath of Andrew Williams losing a scrap with his Beta in section 2. The Beta had ende’d on the final descent and I was just in time to see it give him a savaging, arms and legs bent in positions they had no business being in before arriving at the bottom in a tangled ball like two scrapping gerbils. Rich Webster was on hand to seperate the mess and luckily Andrew was fine. Looking forward to that on the Ossa then I thought, if that’s happened on an air cooled mono…. Into section 1 and over the rock and nail it up the slab and – instant stop near the top, chain derailed. Now in reverse at full tilt my thoughts couldn’t help but turn to how hard I was going to hit one of the two trees I’d just passed through and how many pieces it might smash my spine and ribs into. Luckily the brakes on this bike actually work and I was able to haul it up before the air ambulance was needed. Russ helped me with the chain and was delighted at how clean a condition the bike was kept in as he didn’t have a speck of oil or grease on his hands after handling the chain… Great start I thought, 5 already. Back to the van again to sort it. I never managed a clean on this one, dabbed it twice in different places and had a 2 on one lap but it needed to be line perfect rides for clean as flicking and jinking your way out of trouble on the Ossa isn’t an option, it just wants to keep ploughing forward.
Section 2: Another good one. Through the start, over a hump and up a long, loose and steep cambered climb to the right followed by a sharp left at the top back across the bank below a tree, then a U turn back across above the tree and back down to the end with a tight right / left at the bottom before the cards. The trick here was up the camber with enough speed that the bike could be rolled off using momentum to make the left turn below the tree on trailing throttle. The ground was loose so coming to an almost stop and then using more throttle to turn would just dig the rear wheel in or lift the front. Going wide up the camber at the top seemed the best approach. This was the hard part, once past this bit the rest was straightforward. The hump at the start had to be taken accurately as if it knocked you off line it could really affect the line up the camber. Managed 2 cleans a 1 and a 2 on this so pretty happy as the bike was bogging on the carb on the turn at the top of the camber
Section 3:This was going to be tricky, from the start, up a small bank and U turn behind a tree, back down and straight into another U turn, back up the bank, turn right along the bank and back down over a rock and out. The first U turn around the tree had rocks in the ground that weren’t embedded and they could move around. They were in a different position every lap and could easily roll under a wheel and put the bike off line which would have compromised the next turn. The Ossa has decent lock but isn’t a great bike for clutch/brake riding in really tight stuff but I could just about ride this one clutch out so no real problems. It was a tester though.
Section 4: Fairly straightforward this one, off the track up and onto the bank with a slight chicane shaped ascent, along the bank and down over a root which needed a bit of ground clearance to clear, tight left into the ditch, tight left again up the bank and straight back down again, across the ditch and up and out. No problems with this one apart from sumping on the root every lap which tried to throw the bike off line but there was just enough room at the bottom to sort it out.
Section 5: Pretty straightforward again until the end, start off the track up the bank and around a tree. Along a short track with a left, right, left jink through some trees then a sharp left and short climb up the bank with a U turn around a large stump (or rock, or something…) then down between the stump on the right and a large rock on the left and out. This last part was the tricky part as the short climb had a small stump which needed the front wheel taken wide around to its left allowing the rear to go over it which gave enough room to U turn and get back down without clouting the rock on the left. It was tight but if you had the right line for the U turn it was alright, so no problems with this one.
Section 6: A tricky one as it was all on loose ground. Down the bank off the track and turn left before the bottom across the camber, inside a tree and back up to the track, U turn on the track, back down the bank to the bottom, turn left and then left again back up the bank to the track, another U turn and back down with a left right jink through trees to the ends. Careful on the throttle and brakes so as not to lose traction on the climbs or the front on the descents and turns and all cleans here
Section 7: This was a tough one on the Ossa. In off the track, over a log and past a tree then a left right kink through a bit of a dip then very shallow climb with some roots for good measure and onto flat ground, U turn and back down into what I thought was going to be impossible to clean. A full lock left U turn on the clutch and brakes followed by a short steep climb. The problem here was the bike was still at an angle to the climb with no more room to turn as the front wheel was right at the base of the climb, so it was either foot down, pull the front around early and go, or try and do something Ossas were never intended to do, flick turn it from virtually stationery and up the climb with no run up. Once on the top the rest was just the ride out along and down the bank. I thought I might as well try it but if the flick turn goes wrong it’s usually going to end in a 3 or 5 whereas the planned dab and pull the front around is a certainty for a 1. So, in we go and get to the point where it’s flick turn city. It’s a heavy bike for this and the engine with the big flywheel isn’t a quick revver so doesn’t have GasGas 300 like acceleration… Get balanced, pull on the bars, flick the clutch and gas it and somehow it got up. Another inch on the climb and it wouldn’t have made it but this was my best ride of the day and I was dead chuffed, especially when I managed it again on lap 2. Lap 3 I had a dab at the top and by lap 4 I was tired and didn’t quite flick it enough so had 2 but nonetheless, well pleased with that as the bike was never designed for sections like that and it was on its absolute limit of what it can do.
Section 8: A straightforward route on the first half of this one, a right and a couple of left turns around trees which led to the tricky bit which was down a short bank from behind a tree, then full lock right and half a bike run up to a short climb up a root covered bank and on to the ends. The roots were at angles, very slippery and there were a couple on the top also at angles which could catch and slide the rear wheel, easily causing a foot down. There was just enough room in the run up, just, to get the Ossa going so 3 cleans on the first three laps but a slack attempt on the last lap cost a 1 that I shouldn’t have had. Some expletives muttered and a bit of self-chastising exiting the section.
Section 9: Start off the track and left up a climb over roots onto the top. At the top of the bank was a U turn – tricky, followed by – holy crap, that looks nasty, a camber across roots high up the bank and between two diagonally opposite trees. The U turn was tricky as there were a couple of rocks in the ground not ideally placed. One prevented you from taking a line further out for better position and the other was difficult to get inside of after the U turn, which is where you needed to be, as if you went top side of it the approach to the camber and dreaded roots was all wrong. The roots on the camber were like ice and running vertically so the camber needed some commitment to attempt a clean as if it went wrong the bike would slide from under you and there were several options of how the inevitable crash could severely hurt you in lots of different places – all at once. I reasoned that if I was stupid enough to go for a clean the inevitable jettison of bike and rider off the roots back down the bank would effectively skittle everyone waiting in the queue below, so I took a planned dab on lap 1 and it worked, tried the same on lap 2 but had a 2. Lap 3 I was now thinking big as I’d seen Andrew Williams have two nice cleans on it with a brave approach and thought I’d give it a go. A change of mind at the last second, or coming to my senses more like, saw me go for another dab but I was out of position for that by now and put my foot on the ice-like root – well, where else. That’s a 5 then as foot and wheels gave way to gravity on the roots. Lap 4 was back to a planned dab
Section 10: Straightforward start, around a tree and then oh shite, how the hell am I going to get over that I thought, gawping at the blue and red on top of the large trunk of the fallen tree at the bottom of the bank that was around a foot and a half in diameter and raised off the ground as well for good measure – on a bike that can ground the sump riding up a kerb stone. There was a bit of a kicker at the base, which may have been of more psychological than practical use, not sure. On the other side of the log you were straight into the rising bank and had to turn right, behind a stump and back down, up the other side, U turn and back across and out. That was fine, the tree was the problem. The approach was from behind another tree at the base of the opposite bank and you could stay tight to the tree and turn left which put you on the same level as the fallen tree now in front of you, or you could go high up the bank and come down towards it which gave you more room but from a downward approach. I opted to stay low which I thought was a steadier approach albeit with less run up. Get square, clutch, revs, front up and hit it – well bugger me, up and over on the back wheel and away clean. Almost as chuffed with that as section 7 as I didn’t think it would do it. Same again on lap 2. Lap 3 the kicker had gone so I tried the higher line approach but it didn’t work as the bike is hard to hold straight on a descent on clutch/brake and I got off line and had a 3. Last lap I reverted to tight around the tree but caught my foot which caused a dab right there – moron. The kicker was still gone but this was a better approach so launched it and had a dab over the tree so pretty happy with that, apart from the noddy dab around the tree.
And finish.
Thoroughly enjoyed it, definitely was hard work in places on the Ossa but that was what made it all the more enjoyable, being on the absolute limit of my ability on that bike in a few sections and managing some cleans that I didn’t think were possible. Happy. A big thanks to all of the team again that make it happen, sadly can’t make the next one at another of my favourite venues, as unfortunately it clashes with our centre trial
Rob Sloggett – Observer (Sec 9)
My last visit to Nant Y Ffrith 2 montrhs ago saw me as a DNF as the Bultco blew the baffles out of the modified exhaust. As this is the 2nd time this has happened it needs a proper mod or a better box so with that bike in the workshop and the Majesty running a bit rough (needing a carb clean I suspect), I thought I would offer to take a board and give the regualrts a chance to either ride of have a break. I love the chance to observe. You get to see a lot of riding styles and techniques and see those riders in the improving classes develop as well as study the Experts approach to the harder stuff.
My section was bascially broken down into 3 zones. If you looked up the gully from the lower start, zone 1 (left hand lower section) was only used by the Experts and Inters, then zone 2 (right hand mid) was used by all 3 with the Novices and Clubman having this as the first set of challenges then zone 3 (upper left) being used by all routes.
The section was basically an uphill traverse made up of banks, roots and tight turns around trees. The highlights of the section were different for each class and starting with the expert, after a snaked climb up a bank they had a nice tight 90 deg right to be presented with a very tricky camber between two trees but the most evil diagonal down hill exposed root that just got more exposed and polished as the day went on. Basically two techniques. Either a well planted steadying dab or a full on “attack the block” which if you got wrong resulted in a rapid descent into the bottom of the gully. Total respect to the riders in this class and to Mark and Russ for picking such a great element.
Inters had a more simple climb up the bank, albeit, at the start it looked worse than it probably was. They then joined most of the clubman route but the exit was different. Quite a few riders picked up simple 5’s for getting this element wrong. Easily done…
Clubman had a perfect route for the class with a mixture of some simple challenges such as exposed root and banks with tighter turns. Lots of single dabs being taken with the maximum total for the 4 laps being 9. Finally, the Novice route was a really nice simple S between the flags. Its probably the hardest route to mark out in my opinion and it the class which is people coming into the sport and you want them to have a good days sport, feel like they have had some challenges but not freighted to come back.
It was great to be back on the boards but two observations from the observer…. firstly I was surprised at times that people who were walking the section not being aware of riders either coming into or actually walking the section. A few times I had to shout at riders to make sure the rider in the section was not impeded. Secondly (and to be clear we don’t do it for the thanks, we do it as a way of supporting the club), I was really surprised this time around how few riders said thank-you at the end of the last lap. Probably a maximum of 20. I really makes our day after being stood there for 4 hours to get a simple thank-you and actually you are verifying its your last lap so if for any reason we have recorded one of you laps against the wrong rider (it does happen when you are trying to record 400 individual scores) we can check our error with you.
Dave Pengilley – Twinshock / Intermediate
It looked like it was going to be a wet day as we climbed towards the Nant y Frith parking area and into the low mist and cloud. Directed to a parking spot by Geoff on his usual efficient parking duties getting the maximum out of the available space. Prior to the start of the trial, coffee in hand. It was good to catch up with a few riders that I had not seen for quite a while. Quick briefing from Russ and Mark and it was off to section 1.
I like to start at section 1, seems to save confusion later on. Must be an age thing. Section 1 looked a tricky opener with some innocent looking roots just waiting to catch you out. Walked section 2 at the same time as they were quite close, this looked as if could have been a very different section with a fallen tree across the start of a drop towards the ends cards, but it had all but disappeared after the first few bikes had been through it. I managed to clean both sections every lap albeit a bit close at times.
Section 3 was a new one tucked off the road. This was again a tricky little section observed by Dave, special thanks goes out to him coming our to observe while injured. This caught me for a 1 on the second lap with a dab that was not on the ground long enough to be of any benefit but we have all been there.
Section 4 was a straight forward section dropping down through some trees over a large root into a gully, up the bank and out. Rode down the first part, dropped into the gully and fired it up the bank, I thought that seemed easy, other riders seemed to make a bit of a turn near the outs, quick glance over to the observer expecting a nod or thumbs up and he says wrong side the ends card mate. So that why it seemed easy!!!!!!!. Never mind some you win some you loose. On down the cracking new fire roads where there were sections spread out on either side of the tracks, this managed to keep any queuing to a min and kept the trial moving well. Every section was well thought out on the green route and had to be ridden accurately, slightly off line and you were in trouble.
Section 9 was a quick blast up a bank and around a tree, this has caught me out at an earlier trial so I decided plenty of gas slightly wider line to make sure I was the right side of a perfectly placed green marker close to the tree. This did have the observer Rob beating a hasty retreat on one lap with a slightly worried look on his face.
Section 10 was one of my favourite sections. First 2 laps it rode very well again making the most of the room to go wide around the first tree, dropping down the steeper part giving a good line for the tight right hand turn around the back of a fallen tree before a sharp climb over a rock to the end cards. Laps 3 and 4 was very different the short drop after the tree got very slippery and it was a bit of a lottery how you landed in the bottom before the turn.
Massive thanks to all the observers who stand out all day so we can enjoy our sport, especially the riders injured or just giving it a miss for other reasons picking up a board. Once again an excellent well organised trial, thanks must go to everyone involved not just the bits we see on the day but all the work beforehand admin etc, and after sorting & washing markers, and getting the results out almost before some of us get home.
Tony Williams – AC Mono / Beginner
What a great trial again. 100 riders and very little queuing at the sections. Well me and my mate Steve Harding started with section 8, observer Michael. A figure of 8 section, really tight, did not like this one but got through on a 2. Next one, Section 9, a short climb to a tight left round tree about the easiest of the day. Now go to section 4, a very tricky section, go straight through tight trees, gentle on throttle then a very tight off camber left turn. You had to trust your front wheel or go for safety dab. Dropped one. I can go on and on about trial but really enjoyed the white route. Simple but still could trip you up. Well done Russ and Mark, good job.
Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman
First of all a big thanks to everyone involved for putting on another great trial. As usual, big thanks to Russ and Mark for giving up their Saturday to set out the sections over good long lap. A massive thanks to all the observer’s for giving up the Sunday and standing there for most of the day just so we could have a great day riding the sections, not forgetting Chris Deburger for keeping us fed and watered .
So the day started with me getting there early to assist with setting up and on car park duties with Geoff, with over 100 rider’s expected it was going to be a bit tight but Geoff was on it ,
Aĺl parked up and ready. So 11 o’clock arrived and every one met at the main part of the car park for Russ to give out the regulations and directions of the lap and then the day began. So here are a few of my favourite sections of the day.
Section 1: Sue and Russ on watch. I started to the right of the start gate and into the section. You had to keep left, tight against 3 trees before a tight right and up in-between a rock and some bare roots. Up onto a sandstone bolder before dropping off it into a dip and a tight left as soon as you drop off then. In-between two very close trees and then gas it up a bit over another bit of a steep bank, over more roots and a bit of a left on an off camber bank before another bit if a steep right handed bank. Over more roots and out of the section. I dropped some silly marks but found this section a bit challenging but enjoyed it,
Section 4: Ben on watch. You start off from the main track and straight into the section into a bit of a muddy dip and then up towards the trees. Then a bit of a left and along a bit of a ridge, some very wet slippy leaves, carry on between more trees before going over a big root (almost a log haha ) and dropping down a wet slippery muddy bank and turn tight left at the bottom. Along a bit, before firing it up another steep slippery slope and out of the section back on to the main track,
Section 9: Rob on watch on this one. You start off on the main track. I opted to start to the left of the start gate to give me a bit of a better line though the start and straight away in to the section. A bit of a dip and then straight away up over some slippery roots and close to a tree before climbing a bit again up to a very tight left, round another tree and keeping it left along the top of a ridge before a very tight left. Straight away, dropping down a steep bank before firing it up another steep slope covered in roots and then straight away a very tight 180 round another tree and then drop down and left out of the section.
These were just three, but I think all sections were spot on and found it hard to choose my favorites. Big thanks to everyone involved again and all the observer’s
Well done aqueduct , you guys smashed it again, Looking forward to seeing you all next time…Cheers
Before we move into the usual stats, we have to close by once again say a huge thank-you to the club team for all of the effort they put in over the preceding months to make this happen, the observers for still taking the time to support and the land owner as always.
Top Places
Pre 65
Expert – None
Intermediate – Paul Owen, BSA (5); Craig Howard, James (8); Kev Williams, Triumph (11)
Clubman – Paul Brimelow, Cotton (4); Graham Miller, Triumph (6);Harry Edwards, James(12)
Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (14)
Twinshock
Expert – Richard Webster, Fantic (16); Dave Wood, Bultaco (29); Jim Williams, Honda (50)
Intermediate – James Brooks, Honda (3); Tony Dillon, Fantic (4);Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (6)
Clubman – Rob Jones, Honda (2); Elwyn Beedles, Honda (2); Phil Cottiga, Fantic (5)
Totally rebuilt during lockdown only used once since then. Frame, swing arm and subframe powder coated to original colour Wheels rebuilt and powder coated to original Rear shock fully restored Bearings and seals replaced Ideal bike for Rock shocks series
£2,750
Tel: Mike on 07983000657 for full details Located south Wirral
