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

The removal of Covid restrictions in Wales allowed an uncapped event, and it was great to see 102 riders sign on for what turned out to be a very wet and muddy day at Plas Onn. We have to start in these circumstances by thanking to observers who stood out in very challenging conditions!

The 102 riders were made up of 29 Pre 65’s, 25 Twinshocks, 19 AC Monos and 29 Modern Monos. Its great to see such a great representation in the classic classes and long may it continue!

The Novice class started the day with 8 riders, 32 in Clubman, 43 in Intermediate and 19 in Expert. The highest contested class of the day was the Pre 65 Intermediate with 14 riders, AC Mono coming a close second with 13 riders.

We have a great set of reports this time including a observer report and two from the youth riders.

Zain Pughe-Hutchinson – Modern Mono / Intermediate (Youth B)

The trial was very good as I like the place each time I ride  there .

I decided to ride the green route instead of my normal yellow and glad I did .

I liked how the sections were set not hard but not too easy either .

The sections up the stream were great I enjoyed the ride in between 9 and 10 .

Thank-you to everyone who helped out and needed the hot chocolate after. The only thing I didn’t enjoy was the long queue at section 5 as it was big all day.

Thank you all from Zain

Kaan Pughe -Hutchinson – Modern Mono / Novice (Youth C)

It was very slippy, wet and cold and was scary in places . I did like it because it was fun and entertaining .

My fav  section was number 9 at the bottom of the gully because it was nice and simple in the stream and my least fav section was number 4 because I couldn’t get off the bank to get to the start and had to ride the yellow route instead of white . Section 5 had lots of people and I got cold waiting but I had a go.

Thank you from Kaan

Mark Newman – Pre 65 / Intermediate

Firstly I must start off by praising all the officials and observers , that’s everyone who gave up there time over the weekend. You all did a great job and together that’s what makes this team so good. These trials are by far the best club trials I’ve been too.
So “THANK YOU “

Riding the green intermediate route on my 250cc Francis Barnett 
my favourite section of the day had to be 10 with its up and down sweeping slopes, rooted banks and muddy holes,. Nothing to tight, but still slippy. I love this type and the Francis Barnett gripped like a good un!

Section 5 Paul’s, this was another great section similar to 10, sweeping up and round across the loose rocks and flowing water ,with a climb out over the fallen tree trunk.. Nothing too tight, just a lovely ride if you kept it smooth.

Section 2 Russ’s, loose rocks, muddy climb. What’s not to like about this, until you are possibly over confident and not paying enough attention and your off line by a couple of inches, you need a dab and your foot finds a hole. A twisted ankle and the bike lies down, what a knob, that’s all it takes. From then on I’m finding it difficult to lean the bike over as any twist on the ankle and I know about it ,suddenly my score starts to mount up.

Marks section 1, I just couldn’t make the first turn around the tree. Cost me a 1 every lap, need to work on that.

A couple of unnecessary dabs on sections I’d cleaned beforehand starts to see my score In the 20’s, same old story, can do better.
All in all great day and I didn’t even really struggle getting into section 4 which I’m sure someone will give you the low down on that .

Tony Williams – Modern Mono / Novice

First of all a big thankyou to observers for standing out in the wet and cold conditions. A tricky trial this one, ground conditions did catch us out.

My favourite sections….

Sec 8, in the little quarry over rocky parts, all tight right hand turns. Manged to clean it then on to 9. Down into the stream, up over some slippery rocks, tight right then tight left turns. Quite tricky, nice testing section. Then the marathon trek up the stream to 10, this really drained you, you had to concentrate all the way.

Now onto 10, Michael Griffiths the observer, a hard man… A steep little climb, very wet then tight left, then tight left up step, then a very tight left back to the outs. Just managed to clean it.

Now must go back to section 4, what a comedy show…. good riders falling off before going in to section, it was so slippery there on a steep bank it made it a real challenge for white route but another great trial by Aqueduct again, a very enjoyable trial.

Michael Griffiths – Observer Section 10

Well where do I start. Blooming wet on arrival and a warm welcome waiting. Nearly got soaked getting my kit on but all well in the end. Went for a butty and ordered. The lovely young lady prepared it all and was after the bap to put it all on, alas de burger was nattering like Ena Sharples and it took a loud ‘DAD’ to alert him to his duties. All eaten and supped so Russ sent me walking up to the top of the hill to section 10.

By gum it looked a bit naughty , specially after a lap or three. Very soon after the start time Tony Williams arrived and zoomed round the white routs. Yes Tony you are getting better at each trial. Quite a few arrived and needed a bit of a nudge to get a bike in the section. It didn’t help one rider, scored a five walking the section with a slither on his nether regions down into the stream . I’ll not tell them it was you David……..

 It was nice to see Steve Jones riding again and doing well on his C15. Just hope he didn’t find any low branches as he didn’t finish. There were a really nice entry of 4T bikes and to watch Ben Butterworth on his Ariel is a great pleasure. Reminded me a bit of an Irishman riding something simular. There were a couple of Triumph twins that sounded great , Mark Gaskell and Jim Hough flying the Meriden flag.  Also a Cub or two (nearly said plethera but couldn’t spell it ) and the James and Francis Barnet models well represented with Selly Oak providing the Bantams. Oh yes one or two European and Japanese bikes. The modern bikes and Peter Ruscoe had a bad-un letting Chris Carlich stuff him..

 Some riders seemed to be on a bit of a go-slow and an hour and three quarters after the start a gang arrived and were more interested in having a mothers union meeting so I had a bit of a strop and requested they extract the digit. One did have the decency to ask if I was cold and wet (sarcastic blighter) but no I was fine with loads of layers on and Gortex on the outside, the thermals meant I was warm as well (plus the walk up the hill).

The riding standard on my section , in general was very good though Steve Blackburn looked most miffed when told he had just been given a 5. Shock on his face was amazing especially when after asking “why a 5”? Was informed for making the section look too easy.. Thought he was going to wet himself with the sounds he made, nowt like a bit of banter on the section !!!!!  

Darren Riley with his rather nice looking Sherpa ended their trial with me as the clutch packed in . There were some good looking Bultacos out. Mike Jones on the Cub was showing some promise but Mike you want to relax a bit more and possibly slow down a bit. These are sections not enduro. Keep at it though as it will get easier.

I’m rather glad no-one was about when I collected the section markers as it was a bit like dancing on ice  wearing clogs. Nearly slithered into a sitting position a couple of times but managed to stay upright. Not many bikes or vans about when I got back to my car. All in all a cracking trial and I’m looking forward to the next one, though you will have to wait ’till April before I’m back moaning at the slow coaches as National duties call during your next trial . Won’t see you in May as the SSDT gets in the way. Thanks all for a super day and well done Aqueduct on setting out yet another cracking event.

Stephen 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 braving the cold wet and wind for at least 4 hours, it must have been freezing for them, and  not forgetting Chris DeBurger for keeping us fed and watered and the land owner for the use of the venue .
On arrival we were directed to parking by Sue and Geoff where we parked up and got ourselves a good brew and a bacon butty off Chris DeBurger and then went over to Jan and Chris to get signed on and collect my bib (No 1 no pressure) ! The weather was cold and as I was fuelling the bike it started to pour down, but luckily it cleared up just before Russ gave us the event instructions.  So on to some of my favourite sections. 

Section 6: You start off from a bit of a steep bank (very slippery ) and drop down into the stream and back up a very steep slippery muddy bank. Over a tree root and then onto the top of the bank before a tight right around a tree before dropping back into the rocky stream. Then out, back up the bank on the opposite side and again wet and slippery steep slope and left past another tree and along the bank a bit before dropping back down steep into the stream. Back up over some large boulders and a tight right then out of the section.  Tricky and slippy but enjoyed it, first clean of the day for me.

Section 7: You start off from the bank of the stream and straight away dropped into the stream and keep right. Ride up stream and keep right past a log lying in the water and avoid the tree stump to the right then a bit of a right up the bank and along the edge of a slippy grass bank. Then dropping back left into the stream and up over 2 large rocksand a tight slippery right and out of the section. Another good section and a clean for me .

Section 8: A bit of a ride back up the main track and into the main farm yard and turn right into the entrance to the small quarry behind the barn. You start off and turn a bit of a left across some quarry slate and then turn tight right and up a what was by now, very wet muddy slippy shale and rock and at the top of the mound keep right and drop down into the main part of the quarry. Then across the very loose slate and head towards a steep incline and a tight right as soon as you reach the top and along a tight ridge keeping an eye on the fence on the left as you exit the section. Another clean for me.

 
Then on to 9 and 10, another two good sections and a bit of a long rocky ride up the fairly fast flowing stream and a bit of a workout over the rocks in-between them.

Over all I had a great day and think I brought half the field away with me. Once again a big thanks to everyone involved for putting on another great trial for over 100 riders. Cheers

The regs are now open for the March event and will be at Nant Y Ffrith.

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 – Ben Butterworth, Ariel (5); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (16); Jim Hough, Triumph (16)
• Intermediate – Peter Edwards, Drayton Bantam (5); Carl Winstanley, James (10); Craig Haworth (15)
• Clubman – Simon Willmore, BSA (3); Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (5); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (14)
• Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (41)

Twinshock

• Expert – Kev Ellis, SWM (55); Steve Williams, Aprilia (66)
• Intermediate – Tim Cuffin; Majesty (15); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (19); Jim Droughton, Majesty (23)
• Clubman – Callum Grant, Fantic (12); Elwyn Beedles, Honda (15); William Leigh, Yamaha (22)
• Novice –

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlich, Gas Gas (13); Peter Roscoe, Gas Gas (27); Terry Musgrave (86)
• Intermediate – David Matthews, Yamaha (9); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (11)Tie; Paul Edwards, Fantic (11)Tie; Mike Jones, Gas Gas (13)
• Clubman – Andy Steele, Yamaha (25)
• Novice –

Modern Mono

• Expert – Jim Williams, Vertigo (35); Julian Price, Beta (44); Hayden Rainford, Montesa (51)
• Intermediate – David Ellis, Beta (12); Zain Pughe-Hutchinson, TRS (23); Neil Liptrot, Gas Gas (24)
• Clubman – Phil Clarkson, Beta (10); Brandon Trumble, Beta (17); Sean Halstead, Montesa (18)
• Novice – Glyn Roberts, Montesa (43); Tony Williams, Scorpa (52); Logan Price, Beta (61)

Observer List

1 – Mark

2 – Russ

3 – Jeff Hughes

4 – Gordon

5 – Paul

6 – Elwyn

7 – Geoff

8 – Dave

9 – Roger

10 – Michael Griffiths

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 29
• Twinshock – 25
• Air Cooled Mono – 19
• Modern Mono – 29

Route Classes

• Expert – 19
• Intermediate – 43
• Clubman – 32
• Novice – 8

Bikes

Pre 65

• Ariel – 1
• BSA – 11
• Cotton – 1
• DOT – 1
• Francis Barnett – 1
• James – 1
• Matchless – 1
• Triumph – 9
• Villiers – 1

Twinshock

• Aprilia – 1
• Bultaco – 3
• Fantic – 5
• Honda – 6
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 3
• Montesa – 1
• Ossa – 1
• SWM – 1
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

• Fantic – 3
• Gas Gas – 9
• Honda – 2
• Scorpa – 1
• Yamaha – 2
• Not listed – 2

Modern Mono

• Beta – 10
• Gas Gas – 5
• Montesa – 5
• Oset – 1
• Scorpa – 1
• Sherco – 2
• TRS – 1
• Vertigo – 3

The first event of the year is always a good indicator of how the season is going to pan out and Aqueduct tend to favour Nant Mawr Quarry for the January event due to the large parking area and the fact that if the weather is bad, you dont need to tow cars out of a muddy field!

Whilst Wales was operating under restricted Covid restrictions, fortunately this venue was just over the English border and whilst the club still maintained its good Covid protocols, its OK for me to report that 99 riders turned up without fears of a Chester FC type investigation happening!

The 99 riders were spread out over 26 Pre 65, 27 Twinshock, 18 AC Mono and 28 Modern Monos. The Expert route was contested by a brilliant tally of 23 riders with 39 running on the Intermediate route. The clubman class had a healthy 37 riders and those up and coming novices took the final 7 spots

Steve Harding – Modern Mono / Clubman

First of all I’d like to say a big thanks to everyone involved in setting up another great trial, especially Russ and Mark for spending a day in the rain on Saturday to set up the sections for all of us to enjoy on Sunday. So  a huge thanks to all the team and observer’s for braving the cold so we could have a trial on Sunday, and not forgetting Chris Deburger for keeping us fed and watered throughout the day.

Upon arrival we were met by Paul and Sue to guide us to our parking space, then a bit of time to get the bike and myself sorted for the day, a decent brew and a bacon butty off Chris Deburger and get signed on and collect my bib off the girls and ready for the day,. It was a cold but sunny morning so perfect conditions for the trial, all of the sections were spot on, some forgiving and then some tough ones, so here are some of my favourite sections of the day. 

Section 1: A bit of a queue, but it soon went down. You start off from the top of a steep bank, so slow past the start gate and down a very steep slippery slope towards a large pool of water trying to avoid the deep ruts into the water and then back out up a bit of a slippery muddy bank and then a bit of a tight right on a slippery off camber bank in-between two trees and then follow the ridge between two more trees. Drop back down into the water over some deep ruts and then a tight left back up a bank on to a very slippy surface and almost stop to turn tight right again and out of the section, tough but I enjoyed it,  

Section 7: Sue on watch. So you start off from a bit of a bank then straight into the section and turn a bit of a left and then right straight up a slightly slippery slope and over some roots up a bank and then a bit of a tight left on an off camber bank and follow it along to a tree and a tight left again and drop back down into the bottom of the section, then head towards a tree and a large rock and turn tight right between them ,and it was tight then back up a slippery bank and left through the end markers trying to avoid the deep ruts to put you off, another good section. 

Section 8: You follow on from 7 along a bit of a ridge and the stop before the start of section 8 in a bit of a deep muddy puddle,  you start off from the mud and through the start gate then  straight away turn left up a bit of a step and turn tight right again and head up a very steep slope and over the tree roots and keep right as it levelled out a bit before going up again and choose left or right to pass a large rock and the over a few small rocks turning left and then drop back down the slippery slope and turn tight right and out , I messed it up the 1st 3 laps but some good advice from Mark and I cleared it on the 4th lap,  

Overall I had a great day riding with Tony Williams, only us 2 from our normal crew but enjoyed it, Massive thanks to everyone involved and look forward to the next one.

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Wal Cope – Twinshock / Intermediate

I guess the invisibility cloak worked well – I reckoned I’d dropped 6 but the results said 4 – definitely not complaining! I won’t mention where the cloak worked. 

Last time I rode an Aqueduct trial was before furlough and Covid 19 was in most of our vocabularies, when a huge entry turned up at Nant Mawr. I remembered enjoying the intermediate route that day so thought I would have another go.

Starting at section 9 (so I wouldn’t forget – last number on my bib) I was clean for the first 3 sections, but dropped a dab on the first rocks of section 3. This section proved by nemesis as I lost half my marks here.

Next dab went down on the very slippy middle turn of section 7 on the first lap, but the annoying one was section 6. 3 cleans taking the tight line on the first turn, but sat in the queue on the last lap, everyone was taking their front wheel outside the rock and rear inside, so thought I would do the same. Down went the right foot – should have stayed on my line!

Favourite section for me was number 8 – the blast over and between the rocks on the way up needed a good attack after getting the corner right at the bottom – 4 cleans was very satisfying!

Maybe the inter route was a bit easy for me – I’ve upgraded to the hard route at Red Rose so maybe next time out I’ll do the same at Aqueduct.

Thanks for a great day out, especially to the observers who stood out in the cold but kept smiling! 

See you next time.

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Richard Osborn – Modern Mono / Intermediate

Arriving at the venue on a cold, bright, sunny Sunday morning in January you are met by what can only be described as an amazing view, the intimidating slabs of rock rising high above the car parking area forming an impressive arena. The quarry is a change to the other Aqueduct venues which tend to be more wooded areas, therefore the quarry offered an interesting mix of sections over rock, water, mud and shale. 

Section 1: At first the section looks pretty straight forward, but after walking the section it becomes apparent that there are some tricky bits. The initial drop down the bank seems ok, but then you find that the ground offers little resistance, at the bottom of the bank there was a tight little turn over a hidden tree root that caught a few people out resulting in a silly dab (me included). Once the turn and the root had been negotiated it was up and over a small incline in to the water. Out of the water and in to a tight turn between a couple of trees. A tree root sticking out in between the trees focused the mind before a muddy incline and tight left turn took you out of the section. The mud got increasingly deeper during the day meaning each lap was slightly different. 

Section 2: A completely different terrain to section 1. The start gate for section 2 raised questions regarding the new AMCA rules regarding the front wheel entering the section as it was proving difficult to undertake a standing start at the gate without poking a tyre past the flags. Therefore, it seemed better to start the section from further down the bank and enter the section a bit blind. The section started with a left hand turn in to a rocky ‘trench’ before turning right across the path which gave a little bit of respite before launching across a series of greasy rocks. I found out that any hesitation resulted in walking the bike through the rest of the section for a big 3. Once the rocks had been mastered, a 90 degree turn round a tree led to the exit gates. 

Section 3: The start gate was at the top of a steep rise that meant caution was the best approach before tackling a series of pointy rocks. I think I picked a different route over the rocks on each lap. Once over the rocks there was a tight left and right over loose shale followed by a tight left handed turn down over more pointy rocks, the tight right at the bottom of the rocks was surprisingly difficult as the bike had to be threaded between two rocks that offered the ideal place for a dab …..or two. 

Section 4 : Up the bank to the next level of the quarry led to the next section, and like section 3 the section offered a variety of pointy rocks to bounce off. A slight right turn led across loose rocks which meant that momentum was the key, hesitation over the rocks resulted in another embarrassing 3 as the bike was walked over the obstacles. Then just as you could see the exit flags, a big rock in the middle of the route that seemed to move to a different place on every lap, would catch the front wheel and lead to a silly dab as the front left the section, but as new AMCA rules were applied, what would have been a clean resulted in a big fat 1!

Section 5: Initially looked an easy clean, a rise through some pretty stable rocks led to a right hand turn around a tree, but this is where the terrain changed from rock to a shale down hill section. With the back wheel locked, the front needed to be threaded to the left between rocks before you could relax and exit the section.  

Section 6: This section was hidden away further down the quarry and the technical aspect of the section meant that queues started to form on the first lap. However, the position of the section meant that riders could look down on the section whilst queuing so they could pick their line. The section was short and tricky, with tight turns over rocks which meant that total commitment to a line was required, any change in route seemed to result in a dab or three as I found out.

Section 7: Now we were out of the rocky part of the quarry, we were back to muddy sections. Section 7 was a series of tricky tight turns that tested the rider but the terrain offered surprisingly grippy conditions. The final left turn required lots of concentration as the front wheel needed to be lifted over a slippery rock and tree root to successfully exit the section with a clean. 

Section 8: For me this was the most difficult section of all. A quagmire of mud and water needed to be negotiated before you even entered the section. Once in, a tight right handed up hill section required a bit of beans to get over the rock step, before making another tight right hand turn which required less speed and more precision. I got caught out twice by excessive use of the throttle on the first step resulting in both feet down to stop me ploughing into a tree. Once the second right hander had been negotiated, a smooth left handed turn around a tree led to an easy down hill section and out. 

Section 9: Where was the observer ?? A strategically placed van offered the perfect spot for the observer to view the short, muddy section. After picking your way through thick mud and water, the uphill left hand turn was tricky and required lots of smooth throttle control and shifting balance (and a tongue out of the side of the mouth) in order to keep the forward momentum. Once at the top of the turn eyes were focused on the greasy tree root running across the path, a little hop of the front wheel cleared the root, a tight left hand turn led in to a water filled ditch and out. 

Section 10: The terrain could not get any different to sections 1 – 6 ! Mud, water, tree roots, Section 10 had it all. The section started with a steep muddy incline and left around a tree on to a traverse across the bank and over a tree stump, then a tight left hand turn took you down to the water. There were a couple of routes to choose from in order to exit the section, but by the 3^rd lap, I realised that the slow route straight through the water was better than trying to keep to the edges. A steep muddy step up the bank on the other side led to the end of the section and the end of the lap. 

Some tricky sections and a mix of terrain meant that it was a great trial. I’ve only ridden the venue once before but I hope it becomes a regular on the calendar, maybe a summer trial with Chris de Burger on the BBQ would be an idea!

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Paul Owen – Pre 65 / Intermediate Route

Nant mawr quarry . This is always a full entry with it being the first event of the year and in the unique setting of the high walled dish shaped rock quarry. With 100 riders on bikes from pre65 to modern it was going to be another excellent event by the club. Here is 3 of my best and worse sections in the green intermediate class.

I dropped 4 marks on Section 2 . It was very challenging on a rocky terrain. You entered the start gate to the left and across a path with a rock sticking out that could easy take a dab off you. You then dropped into a dip then over a lot of bigger rocks that if you got it right you would just skip over then. But get the first one wrong and you got them all wrong. Twice I messed up and I manage to get my foot trapped in the rocks and as I was falling I hit the tree that squashed m fyingers covering the clutch. My hand slipped off the clutch and bars and the bike shot forward with the kickstart digging in my calf muscle but it also released my foot from the rocks. Lucky I still stayed upright and kept moving forward around the tree and out to the exit gate. This happened on lap 1, section 2. I knew it would be a long painful day after that (haha). I still have a nice bruised leg days after.

Section 5 was another rocky section. It was a simple easy section as you rode up a bank, turn right ,drop down to a left hander then out. But it was all loose rocks and so unpredictable as to where it will kick you on the climb up and down. I managed to stall the bike as I dropped down the bank just because I’d give it to much back brake as the front wanted to slide from underneath me. So that was another 5 marks to my score. But I wasn’t the only one picking up big marks on that section.

Section 7 was very challenging as you started off and up a muddy greasy bank over a big tree root. You had a very tight left hander off camber turn back down the muddy bank and straight into a tight right hand turn on the flat but the mud was slippy and so easy to tuck the front . Then it was up another bank and left hand turn but this time it had a steeper drop and with no run off you were onto some slippy rocks that you had to turn sharp right and over a rock and log then out to the exit gate. I had no dramas on that as the old bantam has a good tight steering lock. I dropped 11 marks from a possible total of 200.

I was hurting and aching after a poor first lap, but I was happy with the results as I came 2nd in class. Actually 3 of us were on 11 points .

Big thanks to the club and the observers for a great day.

Chris Garlick – AC Mono / Expert

Nant Mawr Quarry is one of the best venues I have rode at, possibly my favourite. I dont know if this is because I have raced Enduros there and driving into the quarry bought back memories or the fact that it has a variety of sections from deep water to muddy banks and roots, to big dry dry rocks and slippy ones. It really has a bit of everything.

Sunday saw a good turn out of riders, all ready to do battle but not before getting a bite to eat from Chris DeBurger who’s food is always on point. At signing on we were greeted by the usual smiling Aqueduct team who are always great to chat with and always helpful.

Section 1 was a steady one to get us warmed up, made up of muddy banks with rocks before diving into some deep water. The bottom of it felt solid enough but just before getting back onto the banking and going right for the end markers there was a soft spot which tried to grab your rear end wheel if you hesitated.

Section 2, this was a good section where your reactions had to be quick as there were slimy rocks, you had to be precise and ready to correct the bike at any time. One wrong touch and you could of been facing the other way.

Section 3 was probably the hardest, quiet technical and one wrong move would of put you over the bars into a rock pile. Riding high on the banks and around a small tree then dropping down naturally put you on your left then you made the next turn through the rock garden… tricky. After this it was a blast across the quarry to section 4.

This was my favourite section of the day. It looked easy until you rode it, it was a banking full of rolling rocks and stones that could and would move at any time.

The next 4 sections were more rocks with twist turns, then it was back across the quarry where we finished the lap with slippy banks, deep water and some rocks!

All in all another good trial and a well deserved overall win to Steve Martin on the Expert route. Looking forward to the next event.

We return to Plan Onn for Februarys event and will be closely monitoring the Welsh Covid rules to make sure we comply. . We always 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.

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Top Places

Pre 65

1. Expert – James Francis, BSA (6); Ben Butterworth, Ariel (7); Paul Smart, BSA (17)
2. Intermediate – Paul Edwards, Drayton (2); Paul Owen, BSA (11T); Carl Winstanley, James (11T); Phil Alderman, Triumph (11)
3. Clubman -Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (2); Paul Brimelow, Cotton (4); Mike Jones, Triumph (17)
4. Novice – Terry Lloyd, Triumph (15)

Twinshock

• Expert – Steve Martin, Majesty (2); Jim Williams, SWM (11); Kev Ellis, SWM (16)
• Intermediate – Tim Cuffin, Majesty,(3);Andy Cope, Fantic (4); Robert Reese, Honda (6)
• Clubman – Robin Boyd, Honda (6); Elwyn Beedles, Honda (11); Steve Blackburn, Montesa (17)
• Novice – Peter Reese, Honda (30); Sam Swift, Montesa (36)

Air Cooled Mono

• Expert – Chris Garlich, Gas Gas (4); Peter Ruscoe, Gas Gas (12); Mark Blackwell (44)
• Intermediate -Paul Edward, Fantic (3); Mike Jones, Gas Gas (13); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (18)
• Clubman -Andy Steele, Yamaha (24)
• Novice -Pete Rainsford, Yamaha (72)

Modern Mono

• Expert – Julian Price, Beta (18); Mike Hawker, Beta (73)
• Intermediate – Dave Ellis, Beta (2); Steve Sherwin, TRS (9); Neil Matthews, Gas Gas (10)
• Clubman – Oliver Cookson, Vertigo (6); Tomos Matthews, Beta (9); Phil Clarkson, Beta (10)
• Novice -Logan Price, Beta (31); Jay Hanmer, Oset (43); Tony Williams, Scorpa (56)

Observer List

1 – Ian

2 – Chris

3 – Roger

4 – Gordon

5 – Martin

6 – Paul

7 – Suz

8 – Mark

9 – Elwyn

10 – Dave

Stats

Bikes Classes

• Pre 65 – 26
• Twinshock – 27
• Air Cooled Mono – 18
• Modern Mono – 28

Route Classes

• Expert – 23
• Intermediate – 39
• Clubman – 30
• Novice – 7

Bikes

Pre 65

• Ariel – 1
• BSA – 9
• Cotton – 1
• Drayton – 2
• Francis Barnett – 3
• James – 1
• Matchless – 1
• Triumph – 8

Twinshock

• Aprilia – 2
• Bultaco – 3
• Fantic – 5
• Honda – 8
• Kawasaki – 1
• Majesty – 3
• Montesa – 2
• SWM – 2
• Yamaha – 1

Air Cooled Mono

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

Modern Mono

• Beta – 8
• Gas Gas – 5
• Honda – 1
• Montesa – 4
• Oset – 2
• Scorpa – 1
• Sherco – 2
• TRS – 1
• TW – 1
• Vertigo – 2