Well after much nagging, what a feast of a report we have this month! As well a few from the usual crew, we also have a brace from the our youth class with the Pughe-Hutchinson brothers kindly putting fingers to keyboard with their reflections on the day.

Entries continue to be healthy with 92 riders offloading a rand of bikes for a fantastic days competition back at the quarry. 27 Pre 65’2 and 18 Twinshocks lined up with 13 AC Monos and 33 Modern Monos.

8 Experts, 6 Novice, top and tailed the classes with 38 clubman and 39 intermediates filling in the middle routes.

I also need to close this introduction by thanking a number of our regular riders who offered to pick up observing boards for this event We cant run without your kind offers to give up a days riding to keep the club functioning.

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Various different events have stopped me from riding anywhere near as much as I’d like to this year (get the excuses in early) so I was overjoyed when a free Sunday and an Aqueduct trial coincided!

Pen-y-Graig quarry is a great venue, and after the customary socialising and drinking tea in the paddock, we got down to the serious business of trying to keep our feet up. Some of us did better than others!

Section 2, my nemesis.

A left, right, left turn, on a slight bank and around a tree. Across a muddy trench, duck round another tree, then blast up a short steep climb to the end. The initial element was alongside more of the muddy trench, so do you try to turn across the trench, or keep it tight along the bank? Nearly everyone kept to the tight line.

First lap and I was contemplating a safety dab for the right before the tree, with my foot off the pegs ready. Then I decided I didn’t need one, but as I put my foot back on the peg the front wheel told me that I should have, as it slid the wrong side of the tree.

Second lap, and a messy three saw me round the tree and heading for the end climb. Realised at the last minute that I was heading for the yellow route, and my corrective action failed hopelessly and I slid gracefully to the ground.

Third lap and I tried to go very slowly down the bank into the right turn, holding the Triumph against the back brake, as it never stalls. It stalled.

Last lap and I managed to get round for two. Felt like a clean!

Section 7.

Up a tricky looking, but easy rock step. Left around a slight, easy looking loose off camber turn, then right on a steeper off cambered turn to the end.

First lap, easy clean.

Second lap, maybe not concentrating enough and the back wheel steps out on a loose rock leaving me stranded for a five.

Third lap, watch for the loose rock, slack dab that I didn’t need.

Fourth lap easy clean.

Section 8

Down a steep bank to a tight left, back up a bank and right between two trees, then down to the fallen log. This has been used before (I looked back at one of my old reports!) and has caused problems. The log itself is easy, but the downhill right that you have to make pretty much with your rear wheel still on the log makes it harder, especially as there is a wall of saplings adding a psychological barrier directly ahead. The “wall” was thinner than last time, mainly because I had crashed through them previously! From there it was a slalom down a gully, before climbing back onto the main track at the end.

Four cleans. The combination of geometry and momentum means the Triumph rolls over the log perfectly, all I have to do is ignore the saplings and hang on!

As ever, a great day. Huge thanks to everyone who works so hard to make it happen!

Nye Pughe-Hutchinson- Modern Mono / Youth Clubman

Thank you = it was a great trial. I liked it very much in the quarry and it was my first go at riding the yellow sections and I found it really hard but really fun and I tried it all .

My favourite section was number 6 because it was very hard and now I know what I need to practise on for next time . Section 2, I had good scores and it was really muddy but great fun to ride .

Even though I didn’t finish the trial because my bike broke it was still really fun and Thank you for everything that you did for me

Mark Newman – Class / Route

Well yet another great event , no surprise there then …same team, same great service,  because that’s what it is …its a service to us all who enter,  the Aqueduct team look after us from start to finish..as always a massive thanks to the team and all the observers and here’s a brief report on my day ..

Riding a new bike which I’ve been out on once before, a very unusual Ariel 250 twin. After the first outing I altered a couple of things but I knew the front was a bit soft as the guy I bought it from was half my weight I thought I’d try it and see …

Well section 1 not a difficult one, up and round a tree, camber to the left up and round another tree ..a little too much throttle saw me over shoot and was hard on the brakes to say, in the section a big rock to the right saw me bottom out the forks with a big thud .. a couple of dabs and I’m out …..only then did I find something was rubbing bad , the bottom yoke had hit the mudguard bracket and bent it and was now catching the front wheel.. I tried to bend slacken and twist to no avail…..it was back to the van for me to make repairs…30mins later I was mobile again but rushing a tad …

Anyway some great sections, 2 was a killer and dabs every time so enough said ..

I saw a few people struggling for grip on section 7 but the little twin just gripped and pulled up steady with gentle throttle control..it was a short section with a rock step then a left over the stones which were like glass then up high with a right turn over more slippy little stones but like I said gentle throttle and just steady made it a clean everytime…

then onto Gordon’s with the laying down tree ..its a bugger you have to be inch perfect aiming to lift the front from an angle not straight at it …you dropped in then tight to the left up steep bank and round a tree, then weave slight right then left and the fallen tree is in front of you…so throttle to lift the front over but to much and into the trees at the other side ..a cut finger 3 dabs and pull it hard right to get back on line. Not done yet , pull it sharp round the next tree on a bank drop back down onto the track up a banking to the right off camber and end gates up on the road …

2nd attempt go for the tree at an angle so you don’t end up in the trees opposite…not to much throttle so your still in control…front goes over good line but paused on tree for a milli second, foot down and a push needed a tiny bit more …3rd attempt ok, you know what to do, lift front, a bit of throttle and lift the legs to allow the bike over the tree …it worked and a clean ride well. Happy and now with a bit of confidence 4th time same but smoother happy with that …

Loved Julians section 9 such a flowing section. Could get the bike right down to tick over and just tootle round and through the vans and trees ..

Zain Pughe-Hutchinson – Modern Momo / Youth Expert

The Aquaduct trial in Pen Y Craig Quarry was another brilliant event however the ground was very loose and slippy which made the day harder but it was great fun . I rode the expert route and the sections were set out great . I rode multiple sections good and the worse section for me was probably number 3 because I just couldn’t get that turn at the top . Thanks to you all and see you all soon

Paul Smart- Air Cooled Mono / Expert

Section 1
Tricky turns which flowed on full lock, exit over some loose rocks whilst turning down hill, it was tricky and easy to loose a dab.

Section 2
Got easier as the day went on

Section 3
Lost most of marks here with a drop around a tree and back up tight but a route kicked the wheel out. Even when expecting it, it still caught me out.

Section 4
Lovely flowing section that dug out half way through and could have taken marks easily.

Section 7
Turn into a rock pool after the start gates, easy to clean but easier to dab! Then up around a tree to out.

Section 8
Flowing downhill section with tight full lock turns, blip up a bank to put

Section 9
Cambered drop in looked 10 times were than how it actually rode, then a cambered climb back up, narrow line which you had to be bang on, niggly little drop around a tree to out which again could easily take marks

To sum it up, good trial with flowing sections that needed some thought but nothing that required hopping or bopping.

Stephen Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

Well where do I start, after such a great trial at Nant Y Ffrith last month how do you top that, but you did it at this great venue, 

We haven’t been here for a good while and there were some good changes to the farm yard to give more space for parking but it all soon filled up with plenty of vans and trailers, on a cracking day ,Chris deburger parked in his usual spot keeping us fed and watered 

The day started at 11oclock with a talk from Russ and then a ride down to the quarry for the start, everyone met at the bottom and then split up to start at witch ever section they wanted to,  I was riding with Tony Williams and Alan hotchkis and Oliver,  we decided to put some distance from the main crowd and started on section 6,

Not my favourite but here we are,

You start off from the main track and and drop down a good steep bank into a bit of deep mud and had to pick your line back up a bank and turn a bit of a tight right and up again to the top of the bank before going off camber between the flags before dropping back down heading steep towards a tree and keeping it to the right and over some tricky rocks and straight away you had to fire it up a very steep slope and over some tricky roots and out of the section. 

Section 1

Back down to the bottom of the quarry 

For this one,  you start off through the start gate and straight away in to some slippy mud and up a slippery slope and then on to some loose stone and keep climbing a bit then a bit of a left and up a bit more and left past a tree then you head straight along an off camber bank and then a bit of a right before going left and dropping down another off camber bank and out of the section 

Section 2

Another slippery muddy section, 

You start off from the main track in the bottom of the quarry, 

You enter the section and straight away you were in the slippery mud and up a bit  of a steep bank and then a bit of a left on an off camber bank and drop straight back down into some fairly deep mud and navigate across the previous tyre tracks and back across the main track and straight away up over some fairly good sized rocks onto a right and up a fairly steep bank and fire it up to te top and out of the section 

All sections were testing but spot on 

Big thanks to all the aqueduct team for putting on another great trial , and not forgetting all the observer’s for giving up there Sunday without whom it wouldn’t be possible to have such a great event 

Well done all involved 

Looking forward to seeing you all next time,.. 

We are just waiting for confirmation of our next venue so keep an eye out for the regs opening soon…

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 Garlick, BSA (16); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (26)
• Intermediate – Les Richardson, Drayton Starmaker (4); Dave Riley, Cotton (6); Robin Boyd, Triumph (14); Phil Alderman, Triumph (14)
• Clubman – Tim Lewis, Matchless (1); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (3); Steve Walker (5)
• Novice – Paul Thomas, AJS (5); Terry Lloyd, Triumph (18)

Twinshock

• Expert – Kev Ellis, SWM (14); Jack Lycett, Honda (15)
• Intermediate – Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (6); Ben Boyd, Honda (14); Tony Dillon, Fantic (21)
• Clubman – Elwyn Beedles, Honda (2); Matthew Duff, Bultaco (6); Shaun Gallagher, Fantic (11); Owain Charles, Yamaha (11)
• Novice – Steve williams, Bultaco (22)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Paul Smart, Honda (10)
• Intermediate – Neil Brooks, Fantic (2); Mike Jones, Gas Gas (6); David Matthews, Yamaha (9)
• Clubman – Adrian Kent, Montesa (3); Matthew Sinnott, Beta (34); Tony Williams, Honda (67)
• Novice – No riders

Modern Mono

• Expert – Tony Brooks, Beta (16); Zain Pughe-Hutchinson, TRS (22); Hayden Rainford, Honda (25)
• Intermediate – George Jones, Beta (4); Paul Hempkins, Gas Gas (8); Michael Warburton, Vertigo (11)
• Clubman – Jason Hanmer, Sherco (5); Andrew Dean, Beta Evo (6); Stan Trojnar, Beta (20); Sean Halstead, Montesa (20)
• Novice – George Edge, Montesa (16); Mikey Thomas, Oset (60)

Observer List

1 – Pete Thomas

2 – Elwyn

3 – Dave Lovell

4 – Edward

5 – Jeff Hughes

6 – Mark Lucas

7 – Ian Jones

8 – Gordon

9 – Julian Price

10 – Russ

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 27
• Twinshock – 18
• Air Cooled Mono – 13
• Modern Mono – 33

Route Classes

• Expert – 8
• Intermediate – 38
• Clubman – 39
• Novice – 6

Bikes

Pre 65

• AJS – 1
• Ariel – 1
• BSA – 9
• Cotton – 2
• Drayton Starmaker – 1
• Francis Barnett – 2
• James – 2
• Matchless – 1
• Triumph – 7
• Villiers – 1

Twinshock

• Bultaco – 4
• Fantic – 4
• Honda – 4
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 1
• Ossa – 1
• SWM – 1
• Yamaha – 1
• Yamaha –

Air Cooled Mono

• Aprilia – 1
• Beta – 1
• Fantic -2
• Gas Gas 2-
• Honda – 4
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono

• Beta – 13
• Gas Gas – 6
• Honda – 1
• Jotagas – 1
• Montesa – 3
• Oset – 1
• Sherco – 2
• TRS – 2
• Vertigo – 3

With the summer break over, September saw Aqueduct back on form with a return to Pen Y Graig. The rider count continues to be healthy with the regs being open to the end, a total of 69 riders enjoyed a warm start to the day.

14 Pre 65 and 18 Twinshocks made up the core classes of the club with 15 AC Monos and 22 Modern Monos making up the other groups.

4 Novices and 8 Experts enjoyed a great range of sections with 28 Clubman and 28 Intermediates battling it out in the middle classes.

Many thanks to David, Paul and our observers for their reports this month and also all of our riders for the dignified behavior and the period of silence at the start to commemorate the passing of the countries Queen.

Paul Owen – Pre 65 / Intermediate

It was nice to but back after the summer break. And after few minutes silence for our queen we all started our engines as took to the green paths.

Section 1 was so tricky with root after root on the off camber. Then into a tight right turn under the rock face to a slippy rocky climb to a sharp right and exit. That section looked easy but took many marks off the riders.

Section 3 was a basic up down up down on the banking the first part got tricky as the roots became bare and slippy and the next climb was on loose ground. I span lots on the first lap so on the 2nd lap I gave it full throttle and flew up the bank but got to much grip and almost missed the turn. Haha

Section 10 was a steady drop down a bank into a right turn and about 5 metres of rocks that if you got wrong would easy see a slack dab. Then you turned right into a tight left and up a steep bank but the ground was loose and you had no grip.

Again another top trials by a top club

David Riley – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Although the week was a bit low with the passing of the Queen, we . gathered for a 2 minute silence. I rode with Kev Williams and Jim Droughton and the company as always was great. Nant Y Ffrith is such a good venue with such scope it was always going to be a great trial especially with the warm weather.

Section 1 – Up and over a couple of big tree roots to a tight right turn & up the bank turning right downhill and out. The right turn was really tight if you got off line.

Section 2 – Steady right turn up a bank with a step halfway up to the crest then a left turn back down the bank & out. This was tricky on the last lap as a large rock was disturb at the top of the bank

Section 3 – Nice little climb up a steep bank to a cut rocky line, right down the hill and back up a couple of steps to a right turn around a tree and down a steep hill & out.

Section 4 – Up a bank over roots to a tight right turn up a gully and root step at the top. Turning left down the hill to a steep drop to the path level turning right back up the bank & out.

Section 5 – Up and down through a gully to a step to either a tight left turn or turn around a tree. Back into the gully with a right turn and up and out over roots.

Section 6 – Very tight on the first time through. Downhill left and right into the bomb hole. Up the bank to a tight left turn through trees and back into the bomb hole to a tight right 180 over tree roots and up and out to the left.

Section 7 – Tricky section uphill over rocks to a level to a tight downhill right turn back into the rocks with a nasty step down and a turn to the left & out. I got this all wrong on the last lap and needed a parachute as the Cotton gracefully hit the deck. Russ was to slow to get the camera out!!

Section 8 – Narly entrance over rocks to a left turn with awkward rocks to stop your progress. Up a greasy hill to the top of the bank and a left turn back down the bank & out.

Section 9 – Easy entrance to a right turn and up a bank. Travel along and back down into the bottom. Then up over tree roots to a greasy bank to the top. Turning left preparing for the steep downhill drop and out.

Section 10 – Gradual downhill to a steady right turn uphill and over a crop of tight rocks. On the Cotton I had to lift the front wheel to clear the sump. Over the rocks and into an uphill turn to the left, fighting for grip but needing throttle to get to the top of the bank.

All riders I spoke to commented on how good the trial and venue was

Thanks Aqueduct Organisers and all the observers

Observer Soundbites

Well I loved my section, a little difficult for some of the riders, or they said, but everyone said it was an amazing day and enjoyed every minute

Suzanne Jones (Sec 4)

Well my section was a bit challenging for some with a tight turn before going up the bank to finish but no complaints as always everyone enjoyed the day with the aqueduct crew

Christine Samuel (Sec 10)

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.

Our next event is on Sunday 9th October at Pen Y Graig Quarry.

Top Places

Pre 65

• Expert – Chris Garlick, BSA (5)
• Intermediate – Dave Riley, Cotton (8); Paul Owen, BSA (19); Mark Newman, Francis Barnett (27)
• Clubman -Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (7); John Dodsworth, BSA (14); Mike Jones, Triumph (18)
• Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (5)

Twinshock

• Expert – Richard Webster, Fantic (10); Dave Wood, Bultaco (18); Jim Williams, Honda (56)
• Intermediate – Keith Burgess, Armstrong (4); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (7); Craig Haworth, Fantic (24)
• Clubman – Matthew Duff, Bultaco (5); Rob Adams, Ossa (10); Phil Cottiga, Fantic (15)
• Novice – No riders

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Steve Williams, Honda (44); Andrew Williams, Beta (45); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (48)
• Intermediate – Mike Jones, Gas Gas (4); Daviid Matthews, Yamaha (8); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (9)
• Clubman – Adrian Kent, Montesa (7)
• Novice – Tony Williams, Yamaha (15)

Modern Mono

• Expert – James Brooks, Beta (11); Hayden Rainford, Honda (79)
• Intermediate – Paul Edwards, Gas Gas (1); Garry Parr, Montesa (4); Paul Hornsby, Vertigo (13)
• Clubman – Stephen Hall, Beta (8); Martin Speed, Vertigo (13); Phil Clarkson, Beta (14)
• Novice – Glynn Roberts, Montesa (13); Gareth Edwards (17)

Observer List

1 – Elwyn

2 – Ian

3 – Ben

4 – Suz

5 – Jeff

6 – Dave

7 – Russ

8 – Roger

9 – Mark

10 – Chrissie

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 14
• Twinshock – 18
• Air Cooled Mono – 15
• Modern Mono – 22

Route Classes

• Expert – 8
• Intermediate – 28
• Clubman – 28
• Novice – 4

Bikes

Pre 65

• BSA – 5
• Cotton – 1
• Francis Barnett – 2
• Triumph – 5
• Villiers – 1

Twinshock

• Armstrong – 1
• Bultaco – 5
• Fantic – 4
• Honda – 1
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 3
• Ossa – 2
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Aprilia – 1
• Beta – 1
• Fantic -2
• Gas Gas – 3
• Honda – 2
• Montesa-1
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 4

Modern Mono

• Beta – 5
• Gas Gas – 5
• Honda – 1
• Montesa – 6
• Sherco – 1
• Vertigo – 2

February was the last time that the club held an event at Plas Onn, and it was lovely to arrive in the late spring for another great visit to this fantastic venue.

84 riders enjoyed the start with 28 Pre 65’s, 21 Twinshocks, 16 AC Monos and 19 Modern Monos making up the numbers. So great to see a strong bias to the Pre 65 and Twinshock classes. Experts and Beginners accounted for 12 and 7 of the entries with Intermediates making the biggest class at 39 riders and Clubman not far behind with 26 riders. It was great to see the Pre 65 Intermediate class as the largest with 17 riders taking part.

With Plas Onn being a privately ran farm and the use of this venue being kindly offered by Barry and Sarah on a regular basis, the club took the decision to establish the Plan Onn Trophy Trial which was won by William Leigh on its inaugural outing.

William Leigh – Twinshock / Clubman

I always enjoy riding at Plas Onn, no matter what time of year it is or what the weather is doing, just riding the laps themselves is a pleasure with the stunning scenery and navigating the big hills from top
to bottom puts a smile on my face, even if the sections don’t go to plan. Last Sunday I was fortunate to have an exceptional ride on my old trusty TY. A huge thank you goes to the landowners Barry and Sarah,
and to Geoff and all the Aqueduct team and observers that always make every event a great day.

Section 1: A smooth start downhill and turn left where the rocks begin and get gradually bigger, a nice wide exit
but plenty of opportunity to hit the wrong rock and start a waggle.

Section 2:Walking up the stream bed to weigh up the section I’m met with a big rock step up, having watched a few riders take both sides of the step, I chose the right hand side as is it gave me a better line to enter
the climb on the left. The left hand line over the rocks looked easier to ride up but a tighter turn was needed to enter the climb. Once at the top and down the bank it was a fairly straightforward exit up the stream bed.

Section 3: Probably my favourite section of the day. After watching a couple of riders, it was clear a turn of speed was required to get up the first incline. Looking at the network of roots sticking out of the ground I could see a reasonably straight line through the middle of them. It’s very rare that I use second gear in any section but I decided to use second cog on this one throughout. After rolling into the section, a slight
left turn got me pointing in my desired direction, full throttle and unleash all of those raging horsepowers. The new IRC hooked up and pulled me up to the top, time for half a breath before turning right and dropping down and immediately back up as you cross the stream. Following on to the right and looking closely at the approaching transition to the steep climb up to the left. An off camber depression that threatens to let either wheel slide off line. All my weight on the right hand peg got me
pointing uphill where it was full throttle again until the gradient eased off and straight out of the section.

Section 4: A short loose climb and then right around the tree, as you dropped down to the left turn, the off camber and loose soil make getting back on the power a gentle affair, once hooked up it was an easy right and out. I had never ridden this side of Plas Onn before where sections 4 and 5 were but both good sections and a welcome change.

Section 5: Well it sounds simple, ride in a straight line and then turn up to the left and out. Total concentration at not much above tickover in 1 st gear. It started to rain just before my second attempt here which added
to the jittery nerves. Visions of losing the front and sliding off down the hill. I didn’t see anyone riding much above walking pace on this one. Turning left up the bank it looks like there is lots of room to turn
between the markers but they soon get close as you struggle to turn on the camber.

Section 6: Steep downhill entry over the big rocks and roots, try to keep everything reasonably straight before pulling right as it flattens out, left over the stream bed and weave around the rocks before a squirt of
throttle to exit up to the right. A bit slimy on the exit and both wheels weren’t quite working together here but the bank straightened me up before the exit.

Section 6.5……….The view…., did you pause to look down the valley? The sun is shining, the wind in the last of my hair, twisting the bulls ear in 4 th gear, this is the real magic.

Section 7: Traversing the bank from right to left, there was plenty of roots and bits of rocks both visible and hidden
in the grass to catch you out. A steady throttle and no sudden movements here.

Section 8: Riding up the rocky stream and turning hard left immediately before the big flat rock lined me up just right for the tight gap to exit the stream, careful not to spin up on the roots but once back on dry land it
was a right turn uphill on the grass to exit. On my second lap there was a big queue so I went and had a quick look, good job I did as the 3ft big flat rock which was my turning marker had somehow (500 or a
twin?) migrated downstream so it was turn tight around the back of the rock to line up the exit after that.

Section 9: Turn right and drop into the stream, a couple of zig zags in and out of the stream bed but the second was quite a tight line between the rocks and the bank. A bit of throttle to climb out of the stream kept
the momentum up where a few odd rocks and steps tried to knock you off line on the gradually steepening incline, once at the top it was a steady right turn in the ever increasing greasy mud and out
to the exit.

Section 10: Crossing over the stream to the opposite bank and dropping back in again, there was a few rocks in the stream to keep an eye on before exiting up onto the grass, dropping back left into the stream I found it was almost a single line to avoid some bigger rocks and keep a steady tight turning circle to the right. Once the markers came into view, a quick blip of throttle to exit the stream and out of the section.

Mark Newman – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Well after a great tribute to Barry and Sarah the land owners , the talking was done and it was now time for the riding..

Section 1 was in the gully its was prity dry but the rocks were still slippy for some reason, but steady away down into the Section and following the gully away to the left then a sharp short climb to the right out the gully up the banking and back down end cards to the right all well and good first Section nerves all gone .

Section 2, very similar but large rocks to go over as you enter the Section sharp up to the left because again steep climb up to the right out the gully and a steep drop back in …very hair raising if you have any ..as it was a nasty drop and a very quick right to get back in line for the exit…I was concerned about this drop first few times but on the last lap it had me for a 5 bike tucked on me and I went down ..as much as Dave the observer wanted me to clean it and pretend it never happened he had no choice but to give me the 5 ..

Section 3 last one in the gully well this was the hardest of the day tight n twisty and add a measure of slippy in there …watching the first few riders go through I thought Russ and Mark had got this wrong and it was way to tough..if you could make the tight turn up to the left and over the slippy roots no way could you make the tight right turn. But after watching the first 5 or so riders fail an expert who I don’t know came through slow and controlled he entered the Section on the left went as far right as you could pulled it round for a perfect line on the tree roots you a gentle throttle….no wheel spin and just made the tight right ..he then went a different way to me but cleaned the rest slow and in control….I new it was possible….my turn I kept left on entering went as far right as I could a big sweeping left turn almost back to where I was coming from perfect line for the roots gentle throttle control up the roots tight right and the Francis Barnett just gripped and pulled through I was ecstatic but only half way through ….concentrate Newman I said to myself we then turned right and dropped back into across the steam up the grassy bank big left , tight right between two trees slippy on the grass you can see the wheel spin marks but I went straight through and didn’t try tuning right until I was through pulled it right to get back on line with the last gates before the end cards straight ahead ….through for a clean ….I was amazed and so were plenty other I hadn’t seen anyone clean it on the green route even the few modern bikes who had gone struggled…it was the ride of my life and I was thrilled to say the least….I did however take a dab on the second lap 2 on the third as I did get off line a couple of inches that’s all it took and another clean on the last lap…

Stephen Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

First of all a big thanks to everyone involved and Russ and Mark for spending their Saturday setting up the sections for us all to enjoy, A big thanks to Barry and Sarah for the use of the land and a well deserved trophy in appreciation to them for the use of Plas Onn farm, Chris Deburger for keeping us fed and watered . A huge thank you to all the observer’s for giving up there Sunday especially jeff Hughes for travelling a long way with the 2 terriers just  to observe a section ,it is really appreciated. 

So here are a few of my favourite sections of the day , all the sections were spot on but I seemed to struggle with one or two but had a great day any way.

Section 2, David on watch. You ride up  the stream from section 1, a good way over the slippery rocks before you get to the start gate of section 2. You start off in the stream and have a choice to go left or right up a good sized step and then turn tight left on to a wet slippery bank back out of the stream and over some tricky roots and keep climbing right up the bank then drop back down into the stream and and left  up stream over some slippy rocks and out of the section and carry on up stream to section 3.

Section 6 with Sue on watch. You start off from the main track and drop straight down a very steep slope on to the slippery rocks and over the slippy log that caught out many of us on the way up last time here, (a bit of a reverse section from last time here). Then drop down left and straight back up right past a large rock, back down then back up a bit and then turn tight left and drop back down into the stream and across some slippy rocks. Then a turn left and back up the stream then a tight right back up the slippy slope and out . 

Sections 8, Russ on watch. You start off from the bank of the stream and drop straight into the section and up the sections over some large slippery rocks. Then keep it right and tight left round a large rock which seemed to move out of the way as the day went on, then back up a steep step back out of the stream between two trees on to the wet slippy grass. Then turn right and up the steep hill and tight left back out of the section, I dropped a good few points but had a great day, all sections were tough but well set out, 

Well done to will Leigh for cleaning up and winning the Plas Onn trophy, and a huge thanks and well done to all the aqueduct team for another great trial, 

Matt Duff – Twinshock / Clubman

My 3^rd trial and first time riding the clubman route on my fantic 200, I was a bit apprehensive about returning to this particular venue due the very wet/difficult conditions back in February on my first ever trial which resulted in me breaking my clutch lever and not finishing but this time is was excellent.

My favourite sections were:

Section 2: Nice section in and out of the stream with a good test up over the large rocks which was challenging earlier on due to slime on the rocks.

Section 3: This section seemed to be a challenge for most especially on the green route with the tight turns up and around the tree. On the clubman route the climb up and over the roots was surprising difficult and the turn up the final climb caught me out a number of times but it was good testing section.

Section 5: This was a very deceiving section, when first walking the section I presumed it would be fairly easy but the incline combined with the very soft grass made it difficult especially the turn and final steep climb up. I did try a number of different gears but eventually decided first gear was the most suitable.

Section 8: As with section 3, this one seemed to be giving people problems especially the tight turn up and out the stream but to my surprise I managed to clean it every time which gave me a good confidence boost.

All in all a great day and my most enjoyable one to date with the added bonus of doing fairly well on the scores. Big thank you to everyone who makes the trials possible, butty van for the great burger and thanks to Mr Mark Newman for his help/advice while riding!

We now go into a short break to allow people to have a nice Summer and get their bikes ready for the Autumn and Winter phase of the Championship but 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 – Simon Thornley, BSA Bantam (3); Peter Edwards, Drayton Banton (9); Steve Gollings, Drayton (9)
• Clubman – Jon Flower, James (2); Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (9); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (12)
• Novice – Chris Dean, Ariel (3); Terry Lloyd, Triumph (12); Mike Phillips, BSA (37)

Twinshock

• Expert – Paul Smart, Fantic (17); Richard Webster, Fantic (19); Jim Williams, Honda (56)
• Intermediate – Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (6); Tim Cuffin, Honda (9); Chris Beech, Honda (10)
• Clubman – William Leigh, Yamaha (0); Matthew Duff, Fantic (7); Elwyn Beedles, Honda (9)
• Novice – No riders

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (15); Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (27); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (45)
• Intermediate – Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (5); Neil Brooks, Fantic (5); Mike Jones, Gas Gas (5)
• Clubman – Stephen Richards, Yamaha (10); Steve Goode (29)
• Novice – Tony Williams, Scorpa (8)

Modern Mono

• Expert – Hayden Rainford, Montesa (99)
• Intermediate – Michael Warburton, Vertigo (9); Mike Smith (12); Peter Moor, Gas Gas (13)
• Clubman – Phil Clarkson, Beta (5); Stephen Hall, Beta (26); Stan Trojnar, Beta (30:
• Novice – Gareth Edwards, Gas Gas (10); Bradley Zyskowski, Gas Gas (12); Glyn Roberts, Montesa (23)

Observer List

Geoff, Jan, Russ, Suz, Chris, Mark, Dave, Gordon, Jeff Hughes, Elwyn,Bill

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 28
• Twinshock – 21
• Air Cooled Mono – 18
• Modern Mono – 16

Route Classes

• Expert – 12
• Intermediate – 39
• Clubman – 26
• Novice – 7

Bikes

Pre 65

• AJS – 1
• Ariel – 1
• BSA – 10
• Cotton – 1
• Francis Barnett – 3
• James – 1
• Starmaker – 1
• Triumph – 8
• Villiers – 1

Twinshock

• Bultaco – 3
• Fantic – 4
• Honda – 9
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 1
• Ossa – 1
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Beta – 1
• Fantic – 2
• Gas Gas – 5
• Honda – 1
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 4

Modern Mono

• Beta – 6
• Gas Gas – 5
• Montesa – 3
• Sherco – 1
• Vertigo – 3

The good news is, I dont need to do copy this month as we already have an Inter route report so no need to spill the beans on the immediate 5 on the first section and a stall on Russ’s section first lap setting me up with 10 points straight away!

Nevertheless, it was a brilliant event with 73 riders turning out to Pen Y Graig on a really nice day. Due to this being a working farm and a whole flock of sheep needing to be sheered, we were asked not to turn up till after 09:30 and the good Aqueduct citizens followed this to the letter so a huge thanks for that! Its only with the landowners consent that we get to use these venues and these little asks and our conduct around them goes a long way to making sure our ability to use them remains in place.

14 Pre 65s and 20 Twinshocks were supported by 19 AC Monos and 20 Modern Monos. It was great to see 6 riders on the White (Beginner) route enjoying the day and at the other end of the spectrum, 9 riders on the Blue/Red (Expert) route. Clubman (Yellow) was contested by a whopping 28 riders with 30 riders in the Intermediate (Green) route. The biggest class was AC Mono Inters with 11 riders now contesting this group.

A few years ago, the club lost a member to a road based motorcycle accident and following this, a trophy was donated in his memory which focused on riders who were developing their trials journey but also embraced the spirit of the fellowship of the trials community that the club aims to uphold.

Pre Covid, the last person to be awarded this was Graham Pennington and during the start briefing he asked for a few minutes to say a few words. What followed was a heartfelt ask that the trophy be passed on to the operational committee of the club for all of the efforts over the Covid period, maintaining events within the Covid restrictions where this was allowed, even when only a small number of competitors were permitted. This was greeted with a roaring round of applause and was humbly accepted. A lovely way to start the event and remember Chris Davies!

Many thanks to everyone below who contributed to the event report.

Dave Riley – Pre 65 / Intermediate

I love the events at Pen Y Graig, even just getting there can be an event due to pulling a trailer, if anything comes the other way you are knackered.

 I arrived at the farm to the usual well organised car parking. I don’t know why but I always end up at the furthest point from the signing in trailer. I wandered down to Sign In and the usual 20 minute socialising by Chris de Burger’s van. Before the Trial commenced there was a “get together” where Graham Pennington presented the Chris Davies Cup to the Aqueduct Team for the great work throughout the Pandemic.

Continuing onto the Green Route which I was lucky enough to ride around with Kev Williams, it consisted of the following:-

Section 1 – Nice starter – In through the gates to an uphill climb to the left turning left through 2 trees downhill over a couple of roots. At the bottom of the hill turning right and straight out

Section 2 – A winding route through the trees ending in a right turn and quite a steep hill with a left turn mid way and straight out at the top

Section 3 – Down hill into the section with a tight turn to the right followed by a 180′ to the left up a slight rise over debris to a left hand downhill turn. At the bottom was a tricky right turn on a camber and up a bank to right with a tightish left turn over a few rocks which seem to disappear for the 2nd lap??

Section 4 – Uphill to a tight right turn through a bit of “Greenery”. Another left turn and over a large boulder and a slight left to a tightish right turn and out through the gates

Section 5 – Through the start gate and turn right through a bomb hole travelling up hill to a shale/rocky turn to the left. Through some more “Greenery” over a number of well placed rocks to a tight left turn to and (on the first lap), a tricky slippy boulder. On the 2nd lap a nice path had been established around the boulder

Section 6 – A steady downhill through trees on small rocks to a tricky right turn into a dip. Up and over a rock step and a tight left turn over rocks/shale. Followed by traversing across a tricky camber to a pair of trees and turning left down a steep hill to the end gates

Section 7 – All over moving rocks you went in through the gates and a slight right to a large boulder followed by loose rocks uphill to a left hand turn on a downhill camber and out

Section 8 – I believed this was the trickiest !! Into the section downhill to a steady left turn which needed to be the right line or it left the next turn really tricky. Uphill turning tight right and immediately over a fallen tree laid on the ground. If you got the turn wrong dabs were needed to keep going. Once over the tree, uphill again over a mound turning to the right, then downhill on a bit of a camber to a right turn through rocks and a tree stump. Up the bank and out to the left

Section 9 – In through the gates and a steady left turn to a loose climb with a couple of tree roots at the top. Once over the top it was an immediate right 180′ turn downhill straightening up to a left turn into a bomb hole with the out gates up the hill and immediately on the right

Section 10 – Into the section turn left downhill and across the road. Up a shale climb and turning left to a downhill tight off camber right turn followed by a steep shale climb which needed good traction in the bottom of the turn to get grip. At the top of the hill there were a few exposed roots with a left turn down the shale hill with a camber to a left hand turn over rocks and turning left again to the out gates

A number of riders were struggling with their orienteering skills as we must have been a good hour into the trial before we heard the last ” Do you know where Section 3 is??

A really enjoyable day was had by all. Thanks again

Michael Griffiths – Observer Section 6

Just a thought from behind the ‘board’…

I had a grand section (6), well thought out and a bit of a tester. The experts route was niggly to say the least and took marks off nearly all. Chris Garlic had a clean ride on his GasGas where as Richard Webster dropped few marks on his twinshock Fantic. Proving you don’t need the modern stuff to do well. It was nice to see Steve Jones back riding and finishing a trial with very few dropped marks. Seems all the ‘cheeky boys’ came to my section as I think the Woke brigade would have been going daft with what is known as banter flowing round. Non worse than that there Bill Brown sneaking down from the Northern climes ‘pot hunting’… Serves him right as he rode in the wrong group . Just one little gripe from me was the lack of thanks to the observers from many riders. Doesn’t cost a lot lads. Also finally there are one or two who could get a bit of a move on as 2 1/2 hours for a lap is a tad on the slow side… Did I enjoy the trial ? you bet , even the death ride back with Geoff….

Stephen Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

First of all a big thanks to everyone involved for putting on such a great event and Chris deburger for keeping us fed and watered, and a huge thanks to all the observer’s for giving up there Sunday. The day started with a bacon butty and a decent brew from Chris deburger as usual, then the presentation of the Chris Davies trophy to the club from Graham Pennington, and well deserved, for all the hard work that they do and for keeping the club  afloat during a very difficult 2 years for everyone (no easy task). Then the ride down to the quarry from the farm yard. So here are a few of my favourite sections of the day. Back with my usual crew Tony Williams and Alan Hotchkiss, we made our way down to section 3 where Mark was waiting. We were first to the section so had a good look then started off . You started off from a bit of a high bank and dropped straight into the section then straight away turn right and climb up and over a few small rocks, up to a tight left, under a low branch then tight left and round a large rock. Then you drop back down tight past another tree, then right on a very loose off camber bank and climb up a fairly steep loose climb and out of the section. Dropped a few daft safety dabs on this one.

Section 8 – Sue on watch on this one. Again you start off from the from a bit of a steep bank and drop down into the section straight on to a couple of rocks. Then up and left tight past a tree, then a right up a bit of a climb up to a right and a rock sticking up to catch you out. Then keep climbing and over a fairly large rock to the top of the section then a bit of a right and mind you’re head on the low branch and right back down and a bit of a tight left between the trees and down then straight back up the bank over some good sized rocks and a tight left at the top of the bank and out of the section. I managed to clean this one every time,  

Section 10 David on watch – Geoff getting things moving at the start gate,  You start off from the top of a steep bank and drop down and across the main track and then straight up a steep shale slope and turn tight left past a tree on very loose shale then down hill on a loose off camber bank before climbing up right and then left over some rocks tight to a tree. Then on to a bit of a plateau and a tight left between two trees and out of the section and a bit of a steep drop back to the main track.  
 Overall I had a great day and some of the best  sections I’ve rode so far. Once again a big thanks to everyone involved. Well done aqueduct you guys smashed it again. 

Dave Pengillley – Twinshock / Intermediate

Arrived at the farm remembering not to be too early to allow the farmer to do some early morning sheep shearing. Directed up through the farmyard and was parked up in the usual orderly fashion by Geoff. Fantastic spot with stunning views over looking the valley. Strolled down and signed on then over to Chris for a coffee and chat which turned out to be very educational learning about the fine art of bee keeping, sheep shearing, and much much more like a proper old school field trip. Albeit with mature students !!!!!!

The entry gathered for the usual final instructions from Russell and Mark. There was a new speaker in Graham Pennington who presented the organisers with the Chris Davies trophy for 2020/ 21, in recognition of all the behind the scenes work that they had put in to ensure that the trials got restarted after Covid, and Aquaduct would continue stronger under the amca banner.

Down to the sections in the quarry. Section 1 was a nice straight forward section to ease us into the trial although you had to concentrate as the green route proved there was little margin for error.

On up into the quarry every section on the green route needed to be ridden inch perfect especially sections 6 and 7 over the loose rocks, at the end of lap 1 I was still clean but only just. (I knew it wouldn’t last)

Section 8 had a tricky right hand camber turn then straight over a slippy angled log closely observed by Suzanne. I manged to clean it on my first 3 visits, fourth lap on exactly the same line as I thought, the back wheel kicked

Sideways over the log which called for a well planted works dab to haul the Kawasaki back on line to complete the section for a 1.

Section 10 proved to be the sting in tail across the path up and around a tree then dropping down to a tight turn on loose soil leading up to a climb around another tree. First lap it rode well but laps 2 and 3 were a different story. Lap 2 a little too slow and had to work hard to force the bike around the tree for a scratting 3. On lap 3 determined not to make that mistake again, steady around the turn then approached the bank far too fast and needed a 2 to regain control around the tree.

An excellent well thought trial on the green route. As always thanks to the organisers and a special thanks to all the observers who give up there time so we can enjoy our sport.

Suzanne Jones – Observer Section 8

I had a great time!

A massive thank you to Graham Pennington it meant so much to all of the Aquaduct Crew , thank you to all you riders, it was a new section for me but you all did great.

Thank to Moz for his time and patience with me at the very beginning

All your thanks were very appreciated. See you all next time

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 – Dave Riley, Cotton (6); Les Richardson, Drayton Starmaker (8); Paul Owen, Bantam (11)
• Clubman – Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (0); Jon Flower, Triumph (1); Steve Jones, BSA (5)
• Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (5)

Twinshock

• Expert – Richard Webster, Fantic (11); Steve Williams, Honda (41)
• Intermediate – Tim Cuffin, Majesty (3); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (6); Steve Sherwin, Yamaha (11)
• Clubman – 3 way tie (0) = Darren Riley, Bultaco; Dave Lycett, Honda; William Leigh, Yamaha
• Novice – Oliver Barker, Bultaco (3); Joel Riley, Yamaha (17)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (3); Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (19); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (21)
• Intermediate – Mike Jones, Gas Gas (3); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (7); Shaun Mountford, Fantic (8)
• Clubman – Stephen Richards, Yamaha (0); Bill Brown, Fantic (1); Tony Williams, Honda (13)
• Novice – No riders

Modern Mono

• Expert – James Brooks, Beta (6); Julian Price, Beta (24); Hayden Rainford, Montesa (50
• Intermediate – Paul Hornsby, Vertigo (3); Ken Williams, Montesa (14 T); David Williams, Montesa (14 T)
• Clubman – Jeff Hughes, Beta (3); Chris Mellor, Montesa (4); Stan Trojnar, Beta (10)
• Novice – Glyn Roberts, Montesa (10); George, Montesa (33); Jack Black, Montesa (67)

Observer List

1 – Elwyn

2 – Jan

3 – Mark

4 – Russ

5 – Tony Rainford

6 – Michael Griffiths

7 – Ade Robinson

8 – Suzanne

9 – Ben

10 – Dave

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 –
• Twinshock –
• Air Cooled Mono –
• Modern Mono –

Route Classes

• Expert –
• Intermediate –
• Clubman –
• Novice –

Bikes

Pre 65

• BSA – 4
• Cotton – 1
• Drayton Starmaker – 1
• Francis Barnett – 1
• Matchless – 1
• Triumph – 6

Twinshock

• Bultaco – 3
• Fantic – 5
• Honda – 5
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 2
• Ossa – 1
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Aprilia – 2
• Fantic – 3
• Gas Gas – 5
• Honda – 2
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 6

Modern Mono

• Beta – 5
• Gas Gas – 3
• Montesa – 8
• Sherco – 2
• TRS – 1
• Vertigo – 1

It was sunny, how do I know that? Because after having my bike blocked in my garage by my roofer putting the scaffolding in front of the door I volunteered to observe. No I didn’t enjoy the sunshine from the side of a section, I enjoyed it by the side of the road waiting for a recovery truck to pick me up so sorry guys. I did offer and I was on the way honest! and Im gutted I didn’t get to see that wonderful Morgan 3 wheeler!

So back to the event. With entries now being capped to maintain safety and limit queuing (as in the last year or so certain dates and venue have seen in excess of 120 riders turn up which whilst wonderful for the club can bring its own new set of challenges), the 82 riders were spread across 30 Pre 65’s, 20 Twinshocks, 16 Air Cooled Monos and 18 Modern Monos.

It was great to see 7 riders in the Beginner/Novice class and at the other end of the spectrum we had 10 Experts. Filling in the middle classes were 33 Clubman and 34 Intermediates.

Paul Owen – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Back to a great venue.

Section 3. Looked easy with a climb up a bank to a very tight right turn but the rear wheel was on wet tree roots and always caused me a dab before a slippy off camber ride out to another slippy root to the out gate.

Section 6. Looked a simple climb up and down a bank 3 times. But again the roots became bare and slippy at the top of the bank and a rock at the bottom of the bank stopped you getting on the power and caught lots out.

Section 8. A simple ride to a right turn and down to a fallen tree. A basic hop over it and carry on down to a left to the bottom and a climb out the the exit gate. But the fallen tree took lots of points off the riders and a few were eating dirt. Sometimes the easiest of things are the hardest.

Top trials by a great club as normal !

Mark Newman – Twinshock / Intermediate

Well first of all I want to thank everyone from the club for all there hard work again putting on a great event as always and to the observers who without them we wouldn’t have an event..

and to wish Gordon a happy birthday …your a star ..

Anyway a quick sum up from me as I’ve been a tad busy this week. I know its hard to believe. I had set myself a difficult task riding a bike am not used to, an Ossa 250 Gripper, the characteristics of the bike being totally alien to me but I spent the first lap and a half just learning to ride it and I dropped 5 after 5, in total about 30 marks but things did improve and I finally finished on a total of 39 which seems a lot but as I said things did get better..

I found most of the  sections very challenging, is it me or have we moved up a notch on the difficult scale ? I didn’t find any dangerous but I just couldn’t get to grips with section 3, up a steep ramp with a couple of feet to turn right or run into the wall. I never cleaned this.

But I’ve got to say Rogers section I had a 5 first time through but then banged to control the Ossa power and really enjoyed this challenging but great section. I had lots of slack dabs most unnecessary.

This venue is great and the tree lying down on Harry’s section usually causes all kind of problems but the Ossa floated over it to my surprise so much a handful of front brake caused the front to tuck on me and I face planted the dirt. I did see loads of riders struggling to get over it, stopping dead on it or flying into  the thick bush at the back of it but low and behold I cleaned it the next 3 times through it once I’d calmed down with the throttle, and this turned out to be one of my favourites.

It’s great that this club can keep putting on super events and long may it continue. Many thanks again 

Mat Duff – Twinshock / Novice

This is my first event report so go easy. Arrived at Pen y Graig quarry with my Fantic 200 and greeted by the friendly parking Marshall who quickly directed me to a parking spot, bike off loaded, quick brew/chat, signed on, briefing and off we went.
This was only my second trial and I did think about going on the yellow route but I wanted make sure I was fully happy on the Fantic as its a recent purchase and wanted to build my confidence so I entered the white route.
My favourite sections were:
Section 4: Enjoyed this as it was one of the longer sections (on the whites) and it had a nice few turns and things to get around, one of the slower sections which had me trying different gears each time I entered but I finally found the Fantics sweet spot after a few laps around.
Section 5: Enjoyed this as it was a challenge avoiding the mud bath at the bottom of the short incline into the section, also a few difficultly placed rocks to avoid in the middle of the section which caught me off guard the first time around and then gentle a climb out.
Section 9: Enjoyed this as again it was one of the longer sections with a fairly tight turn around a tree and then a nice climb out the section
All in all a great day, great set up, great people and nice to see a good number of little Fantics out and about.
Looking forward to the next one and riding on the yellow route

Many thanks to the observers and organisers.

Stephen Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

As usual a huge thanks to all the aqueduct team for putting on such a great event again, a big thanks to Russ and Mark for spending their Saturday setting up the sections and all the the observer’s for giving up there Sunday without whom it wouldn’t be possible to have such a great event.  The day started at the farm yard and as everyone was getting parked up we had a bacon butty off Chris deburger as usual and a decent brew and as we were looking at the array of well prepared bike’s there was the sound of a Morgan pulling up in to the yard and it did attract some attention, (nice bit of kit that ), then 11 o’clock start and  pre event instructions from Russ and then a ride down to the quarry for the start. 

So here are a few of my favourites of the day.

Section 1: David on watch, you start off from the bottom of the quarry and through the start gate up a bit of a slippery stony slope, up a bit of a bank then a right onto an off camber right trying to avoid the tree then climb a bit more and drop back down to the right again and then a bit of a steep drop back down and out of the section.

Section 6: Paul on watch, you start off from the main track and a steep drop down and over a bit of a bump and drop straight into a bit of a deep mud bath. So then you had to come out the other side and up and keep left before a tight right and drop back down into the mud trying to avoid the large rock whilst turning left past another muddy slippy rock and tree stump and out of the section. aA good section this one , I only managed to clean it once.

Section 10: Mark on watch on this one. You start off from the top of a steep bank and drop down into the section through the start gate and down a bit of a loose gravel slope then a bit of a left up an off camber bank and then a really tight right past a tree and keep the brakes on, Then a bit of a tight left round another tree  then right and out.

Overall I had a great day, I managed to clean 3 sections, could have been more but that’s how it goes, big thanks to everyone involved and can’t wait to see you all again at the next one. Cheers 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 – Jim Hough, Triumph (9); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (10)
• Intermediate – Paul Owen, BSA (12); Carl Winstanley, BSA (17); Keith Gardner, BSA (19)
• Clubman -Paul Brimelow, Cotton (0); Peter Cockins, BSA (3); Phil Clarkson, Triumph (3)
• Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (2)

Twinshock

• Expert – Richard webster, Fantic (12); Ian Jones, Fantic (31)
• Intermediate – Tim Cuffin, Majesty (8); Craig Haworth, Fantic (30); Steve Sherwin, Yamaha (32)
• Clubman – William Leigh, Yamaha (6); Perry Tattum, Fantic (6); Will Birkin, Honda (8)
• Novice – Oliver Barker, Bultaco (0); Matthew Duff, Fantic (1); Andrew Liverseed, Beta (17)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (10); Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (17); Kev Ellis, Yamaha (55)
• Intermediate – Jerry Hawker, Gas Gas (5); Robin Foulkes, Gas Gas (5); Paul Young, Gas Gas (5)
• Clubman – No riders
• Novice – No finishers

Modern Mono

• Expert – Shaun Mountford, Beta (43); Hayden Rainford, Montesa (53); Zain Pughe-Hutchinson (79)
• Intermediate – James Brooks (1); Paul Hornsby, Vertigo (3);Paul Hempkins, Gas Gas (22)
• Clubman – Jason Hanmer, Sherco (7); Sean Halstead, Montesa (17); Kaan Pughe-Hutchinson, Beta (21)
• Novice – Tony Williams, Scorpa (8); Jay Manmer, Oset (19)

Observer List

1 – Dave

2 – Elwyn

3 – Dave Lovell

4 – Russ

5 – Paul

6 – Steve Bee

7 – Roger Kenyon

8 – Harry Edwards

9 – Gordon

10 – Mark

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 30
• Twinshock – 20
• Air Cooled Mono – 16
• Modern Mono – 18

Route Classes

• Expert – 10
• Intermediate – 34
• Clubman – 33
• Novice – 7

Bikes

Pre 65

• AJS – 1
• BSA – 11
• Cotton – 3
• Francis Barnett – 1
• James – 1
• Matchless – 1
• Starmaker (Drayton) – 1
• Triumph – 9
• Villiers – 2

Twinshock

• Beta – 1
• Bultaco – 2
• Fantic – 9
• Honda – 3
• Majesty – 1
• Montesa – 1
• Ossa – 1
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Aprilia – 2
• Fantic – 1
• Gas Gas – 7
• Honda – 1
• Yamaha – 4

Modern Mono

• Beta – 2
• Gas Gas – 4
• Montesa – 3
• Oset – 1
• Scorpa – 1
• Sherco – 2
• TRS – 2
• Vertigo – 2

Nant Ucha Farm always pleases the regulars. As well as being the venue with a great range of sections (especially when the wet stuff is flowing), it is a practice venue where a number of the riders hone their skills. April saw a great morning with the sun breaking through and allowed 70 riders to have a cracking days sport.

16 Pre 65’s, turned out with 18 Twinshocks. The AC Mono added another 14 bikes with the balance of 22 making up the Modern Mono class.

Due to the growing popularity of the club over the last few years, at present we are closing the regs at around the 70 bike mark in order to reduce queuing and to ensure that where parking is tight, the venue is not compromised.

Priority is given to those riders who have entered and are active within the club championship which means that classes resulted in 13 Experts, 32 Inters, 24 Clubman and 1 Novice route rider.

Rob Sloggett – Twinshock / Intermediate

After a few months out of it, it was great to get back out on the Bultaco at one of my favourite venues and jump back into the inter route after a bit of a sabbatical riding Clubman. One of the great things about the club is how the sections are marked out, challenging but not dangerous. Enough to make you think but not enough to make you not want to ride.

Russ and Mark had really gone to town this month, resurrecting a number of sections and obstacles that had not been used for quite a while and boy did it make great riding.

Section 2 was the first one of note. Russ had given me a insight at signing on how the Inters route had two options (steeper dryer rock step to the left, waterfall with running water step to the right). Experts were forced to the right but inters had the choice. Russ suggested to go left on the bigger step and after watching a number of the Experts getting caught up on some craggy aspects of their route, the left hand side seemed the obvious choice. At this stage I knew it was on the border line of my comfort zone. I had ridden harder but I had never ridden this and therefore the variables of approach speed, when to raise the front wheel and when to roll off become the new calculations. Any experienced rider will tell you that once you approach it becomes second nature and those inputs just happen but when you are on the edge of your comfort zone the 4th variable is mental attitude and commitment and that can fail you at any time! There is nothing sweeter when approaching something like this to get to the crest and know you have did it and even better, for a clean. I dropped 3 marks on this section and all of the dabs were away from that step and in the normal run of the stream…. its a funny sport!

The next section (4) freaked me out and riding up to it and seeing the flags just filled me with dread. About 8 years ago, I was riding a Montesa 348 but unbeknown to me it had a fault. A crack in the outer casing allowed water to flick into the electronics side and before I had diagnosed this I was practicing the exact obstacle. Basically a wall to the side of the stream, about 3 to 4 ft high (in those days it was a bit higher and less eroding at the top). You had a small kicker to help you up and it tapered off at the top. On the practice day in question, I attempted the wall and half way up the bike lost all power at a critical point. Dabbing into thin air, the bike came down on me and I luckily avoided a nasty injury but the legacy of that wall was stuck in my mind and I had not ridden it since on a twinshock. So faced with it in the section my first attempt saw me take a dab to line up and then a good dab at the top and I was happy just to get up for a 2. Next lap it all went wrong, at the critical point my brain just would not let me get on the power, my line was wrong, I half committed, filled with the memory from 8 years ago and almost repeated my tumble. Knowing I could not come away with this brain freeze, the 3rd lap once again saw a steadying dab to make sure I had the right line and then a steady climb for no more losses. Last lap it all came together. Perfect line in the approach, exactly the right level of commitment to the attack and confidence in the execution for a well deserved clean. Regardless of my result for the day, that single 30 seconds on the last lap made me a winner! Ghost put to rest…..

Finally sections 6 and 7 both had something a bit different. In section 6, Russ had us riding over the concrete slab. Have not used that in years! great to have it added back in. Funny how the inconsequential stream after just kept taking single dabs. Section 7 on the other hand was the usual mender around the stream with a great root and rock combination to navigate in the last third. A silly lap off line resulted in a 3 on the roots but nice to clean it on the last lap.

The usual thanks to all of the observers. Hopefully you heard my thank you to each of you on the last lap. To the “management and support teams” for putting everything in place, another great event and thank you to Dave and the family for the continued use of the venue.

Kev Williams – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Pulling up at Nant Ucha to the sun shining and the usual smiling faces off we went to sign on and get a bite to eat then back to the van for a chat with fellow riders and admire some bikes before getting ready for the off
It was a quick briefing by Russ and a congratulations by all to him and Suzanne getting married then we were off.

My favourite sections were:

Section 1: It started with a good 1 foot hop on to a rock being careful not to end up in the fence then dropping straight down to the left turning back right and up again following the fence line to then drop down to the left again turning right back up the bank for a second time then it was through the out gate over some roots.

Section 3: Starting this section with going over a little log then heading over to the right to then turn to the left and line your bike up and shoot up a steep tricky  climb with ruts and roots to knock you off line when at the top you then dropped down and out to the left over a off cambered slope covered in roots.

Section 6: A little drop off a wall into the stream with a instant turn right through some deep water to a slippery moss covered concrete slope being careful not to go off line then it was out the stream on to the opposite bank around a tree stump then back in to the river following it out to the out gate.

It was a great day and thanks to everyone who makes it possible

Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

First of all a big thanks to everyone involved and especially all the observer’s for giving up their Sunday without whom it wouldn’t be possible for us all to ride a trial comp, also a big thanks  to the land owner for the use of the venue and Chris Deburger for keeping us fed and watered. So here is my event report for Sunday. 

I arrived early to help set up (many hands make light work) and then was given an orange Marshall vest and and a walkie talkie to help direct the arriving riders to there parking place, and then had a bacon butty off Chris and a good brew before getting myself and the bike ready for the start. At the start, Russ put us into groups and we were told where our start sections were.
So here are a few of my favourite sections of the day. 

Section 4: As you start from the bank of the stream you drop in and cross a bit of a rock and shale stream and then out of the water on to a bit of a climb up the opposite bank. Then a bit of a tight left back down into the stream and try and navigate a bit of a tight right through some good sized slippery rocks and back out of the water up the bank again. Then a bit of a left and keep climbing up over a bit of a root and then dropped down over another root and climb up a bit trying to avoid the rock on the exit.

Section 7: Again you start off from the bank of the stream and drop down into the water across the loose rocks and then out of the other side. Then you had to climb the bank on the opposite side and take a bit of a tight right round some rocks and then drop back down through some very slippery off camber clay, drop back down into the stream and then take a bit of a left over the slippery rocks. Turn right and up a bit of a step and climb the bank before another bit of a right between two more rocks trying not to catch the foot pegs before a bit of an off camber bank up over tree roots and out of the section.

Section 9: Down at the bottom of the field. You start off from the bank of the stream and straight away you had to keep left down an off camber bank. Tight between two trees and then drop into the stream and straight away your onto some slippy rocks. You follow the stream down though a bit of a left and right then keep tight right against the bank as you navigate left past a good sized tree and then head up out of the stream and back up the slippery bank and out of the section. 

I managed to do the last lap with no front brake at all but was determined to not get a DNF. I had a great day even if my result wasn’t {haha}. Once again a big thanks to everyone involved and the aqueduct team for putting on another great trial. Cheers. 

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 – Jim Hough, Triumph (7); Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (35)
• Intermediate – Peter Edwards, Drayton Bantam (2); Kev Williams, Triuph (6); Paul Owens, BSA (13)
• Clubman – Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (10); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (16); Keith Lloyd, Drayton Bantam (20)
• Novice – No riders

Twinshock

• Expert – Kev Ellis, SWM (39); Steve Williams, Honda (54)
• Intermediate – Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (8); Tim Cuffin, Honda (8); David Matthews, Bultaco (12)
• Clubman – William Leigh, Yamaha (3); Graham Pennington, Ossa (14); Elwyn Beedles, Honda (18)
• Novice – Oliver Barker, Bultaco (24)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (3); Tony Gush, Beta (5); Ben Butterworth, Honda (9)
• Intermediate – Mike Jones, Gas Gas (5); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (6); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (21)
• Clubman – Alan Hotchkiss, Yamaha (67)
• Novice – No riders

Modern Mono

• Expert – Paul Jones, Montesa (12); Shaun Mountford, Gas Gas (26); Julian Price, Beta (37)
• Intermediate – Paul Hornsby, Vertigo (8); Gary Jones, Beta (14); Michael Warburton, Vertigo (16); Zain Pughe- Hutchinson, TRS (16)
• Clubman – Phil Clarkson Beta (3); Joel Isherwood, Beta (10); Stephnen Hall, Beta (27)
• Novice – No riders

Observer List

1 – Michael Griffiths

2 – Ian Jones

3 – Jeff Hughes

4 – Suz

5 – Gordon

6 – Russ

7 – John Flower

8 – Chris

9 – Mark

10 – Geoff

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 16
• Twinshock – 18
• Air Cooled Mono – 14
• Modern Mono – 22

Route Classes

• Expert – 13
• Intermediate – 32
• Clubman – 24
• Novice – 1

Bikes

Pre 65

• BSA – 8
• Cotton – 2
• Francis Barnett – 2
• Triumph – 3
• Villiers – 1

Twinshock

• Bultaco – 3
• Fantic – 5
• Honda – 4
• Kawasaki – 1
• Montesa – 1
• Ossa – 1
• SWM – 1
• Yamaha – 2

Air Cooled Mono

• Aprilia –
• Beta – 1
• Fantic – 2
• Gas Gas – 5
• Honda – 3
• Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono

• Beta – 8
• Gas Gas – 4
• Montesa – 4
• Sherco – 1
• TRS – 4
• Vertigo – 3

March saw a return to the fantastic Nany Y Ffrith Quarry. This is an exceptional venue with so much space and terrain on offer but also sets of well established favourites offering the 4 routes a bit of everything (well unless you want wet running streams but we have enough of that in some of the other venues in spades!

So what of the 4 routes, well the 91 riders who signed on were split into 6 Novices, 32 Clubman, 39 Intermediates and 14 Experts.

In terms of the different classes, we had a good turn out of 23 Pre 65’s, 28 Twinshocks with 14 AC Monos and 26 Modern Monos. It was great to see such a bias on the Pre 65 and Twinshock class with some lovely bikes in attendance.

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 / Intermediate

I confused a few people, as I turned up in a van instead of my usual box trailer. From the look of the score, I left any riding ability I had in the box trailer! No less than six 5’s, all unnecessary!

Superb venue, clear blue sky, and the usual Aqueduct organisation and sections we have come to expect.

Section 1. Let’s not talk about my performance in section 1.

Section 2. Maybe not section 2 either.

Section 3. Managed to lose just one dab here.

Section 4. Now this had me worried on the first lap, as the tree sticking out on the left hand side of the drop was exerting some sort of gravitational pull to my clutch hand, the consequences of which could be painful. So I paddled round for a 3. Then someone removed the tree! Next lap I managed to get away with a safety dab on the roots at the last turn before the exit. Third lap clean, but then another safety dab on lap four.

Section 5. A silly 2

Section 6. Clean!

Section 7. A steep drop to a tight left hand turn before a tree. Holding the Triumph’s engine against the back brake meant I cleaned it twice, and safety dabbed once. On the last lap a stone rolled the front wheel off line and I was too tired to fight it, 5.

Section 8. This was a tricky little section. If I cleaned the climb, I paddled the descent, and visa versa. Grip was there, but only at the perfect throttle opening and positioning. Frustration and elation combined.

Section 9. The hillclimb. Bread and butter for the Triumph (as long as it doesn’t spit its chain off, or jump out of gear!) First lap, up the climb with ease, then run straight into the left hand tree before the end flag and stop dead. 5, and a sprained finger.Section

10. Cleaned it once for Jan’s camera. Fived it three times for no apparent reason.

Despite my dreadful score, I really enjoyed the trial. Thank you again to all involved! 

Terry Lloyd – Pre 65 / Novice

Another excellent trial at a superb venue The white route was very good.

Section 1 comprised of two turns on a bank and out.

Section 2 in around a tree, up a bank and and a tight turn right to the outs.

Section 3 was just a straightforward ride through a gully.

Section 4 was very easy just up a shop bank and along although being down for two marks when I thought I was clean.

Section 5 down a fairly long section turn around a tree up out over some rocks and a step.

Section 6 just a straightforward ride through mud and a right turn out.

Section 7 some nice tight turns through trees had to be very careful.

Section 8 up A bank left turn along a camber what is a left to down of rocks.

Section 9 was quite a long uphill section with two turns up to the outs.

Section 10 up a shop bank with a left turn Along A bank with a left turn out around a tree many.

Thanks to you all once again.

Steve Harding – Modern mono / Clubman

As usual a huge thanks to all the aqueduct team for putting another great trial at another great venue and big thanks to Russ and Mark for spending their Saturday setting up the sections and all the observer’s for giving up their  Sunday so we can do what we love doing. Not forgetting Chris Deburger for keeping us fed and watered, and the land owner for letting the club use the venue.

Where do i start?
What a great place for a trial, it has pretty much everything.
I’m finding it hard to pick my favourite sections as I thought they were all spot on and there were some good distance rides between some of them to give you a bit of a breather, 
So here are a few of my favourites that I have narrowed it down to.

 
Section 4: Geoff on watch so no messing about, haha . You start off on the main track at a bit of an angle towards the left then through the start gate then up a bit of a bank. Then a tight left on an off camber bank and up over a bit of a step and then in to the woods. Still climbing and head towards a short tree stump and keeping it to the left and then turn tight right round a tree then back down and a bit of a left to the top of a very steep bank. Then drop down back towards the main track and a tight left through the end markers. A good section but cost me a couple of daft dabs.
Section 5. After a bit of a down hill ride from section 4, on the first lap there was a bit of a queue but it soon went down. Gordon on watch. A bit of a technical section this one, for me anyway. You start off from a bit of a slope down through the start gate and immediately down an off camber bank to a bit of a tight right round a tree.  Climb up to a bit of a tight left then tight right and an immediately drop down a steep bank into the bottom of a bit of a gully. A bit of a left and then fire it back up a steep bank and a really tight right as you get to the top. Then keep it right and drop down again before going back up towards the end of the section, up over some rocks and roots and out back to where you stated. I dropped a few on this one but enjoyed it.
Section 7: Mark on watch. Another good section this one. You start off again from the main track and cross a bit of a ditch and then straight up a bit of a steep slippery slope into the trees. You then turn right and in between the trees, you come to the top of a very steep slope so anchors on all the way down to the bottom then immediately turn tight left round a tree, a bit of a right towards the next tree where there was a large root sticking out to catch you out then a bit of a left. Then up out of the section. A daft dab or two on the first lap but after some encouraging advice from Mark I cleared it on the next three. 

Overall I had a great day riding with Tony Williams and had some laughs and banter on the way. Once again a big thanks to everyone involved, as usual you smashed it, well done and can’t wait to see you all at the next one, Cheers.

David Matthews – Twinshock / Intermediate

Think all the sections were set just right, all were cleanable but you don’t want someone riding clean! Three sections challenged me the most; 2, 7 and 8. The Bultaco was running well and I was enjoying getting back on it.

Section 2: A ride up and over tree roots that seemed to be taking marks. Had seen a few mishaps so approached with caution. I didn’t have a problem with the roots but the exit, a tight right turn kept taking a mark each lap so decided to have another look last lap and managed the elusive clean. Got a thumbs up from the observer so happy days.

Section 7: Well what can I say pretty straight forward looking section. When I saw the steep drop I thought this will be interesting stopping , Bultaco brakes not the best! First lap tried cutting across the camber and needed a dab, had a chat with Russ who suggested a different line. 2nd lap managed a clean, well chuffed, unfortunately that was the the only clean but 3 dabs so pleased with the ride.

Section 8: My favourite, very challenging up over the mud. Tight left at the top, over roots then slippy decent, tight muddy turn right towards the exit. As hard as I tried, unable to get a clean but overall happy after seeing others struggle.

Pleased to get the win ,thanks again Aqueduct

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 Chell, BSA (17); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (39)
• Intermediate – Andrew Scott, BSA (11); Carl Winstanley, BSA (17); Roly Jones, Ariel (20); Dave Riley, Cotton (20)
• Clubman -Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (7); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (8); Steve Jones, BSA (15)
• Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (2)

Twinshock

• Expert – Jim Williams, Honda (25); Paul Smart, Fantic (31); Steve Williams, Honda (41)
• Intermediate – David Matthews, Bultaco (16); Tim Cuffin, Honda (20); Steve Edgeley, Yamaha (21)
• Clubman – Elwyn Beedles, Honda (6); Graham Pennington, Ossa (7); Tudor Roberts, Fantic (12T); Williams Leigh, Yamaha (12T)
• Novice – Oliver Barker, Bultaco (4); Tim Swift, Honda (22); Joel Riley, Yamaha (31)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Tony Gush, Beta (6); Chris Garlick, Gas Gas (13); Andrew Williams, Beta (31)
• Intermediate – Mike Jones, Gas Gas (14); Neil Brooks, Fantic (16); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (17)
• Clubman – No riders
• Novice – No riders

Modern Mono

• Expert – Paul Jones, Montesa (12); Julian Price, Beta (24); Jerry Hawker, Montesa (28)
• Intermediate – Paul Hornsby, Vertigo (15); Neil Matthews, Gas Gas (23); Ade Robinson, Gas Gas (28)
• Clubman – Phil Clarkson, Beta (5); Mark Bill, Beta (6); Bobby Chadwick, Beta (22T); Stan Trojnar, Beta (22)
• Novice – Tony Williams, Scorpa (2)

Observer List

1 – Dave

2 – Jeff Hughes

3 – Chris

4 – Geoff

5 – Gordon

6 – Rob Jones

7 – Mark

8 – Paul

9 – Russ

10 – Suz

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 23
• Twinshock – 28
• Air Cooled Mono – 14
• Modern Mono – 26

Route Classes

• Expert – 14
• Intermediate – 39
• Clubman – 32
• Novice – 6

Bikes

Pre 65

• Ariel – 1
• BSA – 10
• Cotton – 2
• Francis Barnett – 1
• Matchless – 1
• Triumph – 8

Twinshock

• Bultaco – 4
• Fantic – 6
• Honda – 9
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 1
• Montesa – 1
• Ossa – 1
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Beta – 3
• Fantic – 2
• Gas Gas – 4
• Honda – 1
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 3

Modern Mono

• Beta – 10
• Gas Gas – 7
• Montesa – 4
• Scorpa – 1
• Sherco – 1
• TRS – 1
• Vertigo – 2