Event Report by Rob Sloggett and Paul Owen

Following March’s event being cancelled and the risk of more snow, it being April Fools Day and the Sunday of Easter Bank Holiday the expected turnout was anticipated being lower than normal. No chance! why would it be? Its Aqueduct Classics and its Pen Y Graig quarry. The 80 riders managed to get shoe-horned into every parking spot available (and those of us with 4×4’s had the fun part of getting into the higher field as well) but it was worth it for what turned out to be a great days sport. The riders had the usual distribution across the bike classes (with modern monos have a high turn out again) but weighted almost 50% in the Intermediate class (green route).

BSA’s continue to dominate the Pre 65 class as the most popular marque but the twin shock class has seen a shift with Honda taking over from Bultaco. We continue to see a diverse entry in the Air Cooled Mono class (our smallest class with 12 riders at this outing) and Beta continues to dominate with the Modern Mono riders.

This months reports is kindly contributed to by Paul Owen.

Paul Owen – Intermediate (Pre 65)

Another great venue and club that keeps growing from strength to strength and great people involved. The sun was shining over the welsh hills that morning as 80 riders turned out for the trials. It had been a few weeks since my last trial so I tried to focus and ride well to compete with some good riders in the pre65 green route class.

I was amazed that I’d cleaned lap 1 of 4 but on lap 2 I had my first dab on section 2. It looked a simple section on a bank with a small rocky section just on top of the first hump then into a steep short climb on a slippy off camber to the out gate and that’s were I picked up my first penalty mark.

The sections were very enjoyable and ridable with nothing dangerous.

On section 8 of the 3rd lap I dropped my 2nd mark. The section was changing every lap. As you entered the start gate you dropped down a bank you had to turn left as you rode down it. You then turned right around a tree and up a rooted bank to the next level then you rode between 2 big rocks and a slippy root to another rocky section which caught me out as a previous rider moved some rocks. I caught them wrong and was almost off but a big dab saved the day as I made it to the end gate.

II was very happy with my result as it could have been a lot more and I know Aqueduct classic team put a lot of effort into making the day very enjoyable for us riders.

Rob Sloggett – Intermediate (Modern Mono)

A few years ago I had a 1-2-1 skiing lesson on holiday. The tutor took my technique apart, rebuilt it then told me to spend a few days on the easier slope. His logic was sound, pointing at someone on a hard slope making a total hash of it. “Look at that idiot, they are learning nothing there apart from how to get from the top to the bottom by surviving. Now I have shown you some new techniques, get on the easier slopes and practice them”. For the last few events I have had a go at the Expert route. I have learnt loads but this Sunday my head was not in the right place. I walked the first 2 sections and nothing clicked. I could not see a line, I saw danger was there was not any and I knew I was not going to enjoy myself. Most importantly, I did not feel that I was going to learn anything or improve. Luckily I have a reversible colour board so before I entered the first section I turned it round to inters and deceided today was a day to ride that route and practice some of the things I had been developing including experimenting with 2nd gear where normally I would use first.

I have to say I had an absolute blast! I was not putting myself under any pressure, I was walking the section and starting to think how I would approach these when I was back on the Bultaco (or even the BSA when it is built) and apart from section 10 which had a really tasty Expert aspect I was very content with what the green route had to offer.

How did my day go? Well I can honestly say I think riding up a class has helped me improve my riding and if it was not for the two fives I picked up from knocking the magnetic lanyard kill switch off (yes exactly! one on Russ’s section first lap and one on the very last section of the day) I would have finished on a respectable 6 points (a 3 and the rest as single dabs).

Highlights? Section 6 for me was my favorite. Gordon’s section has a simple entry and mid section but then the last third had a tight 180 left hander than a right biased uphill camber. A great opportunity to try out 2nd and 1st and get a feel for the difference in pick up and torque.

Section 10 was a good learning section as well. First lap, the mid section appeared to have one obvious line. As you dropped down the bank and then transferred to an uphill element, the transition point had a cluster of logs and roots with most rider choosing to do a right, left snake around then as opposed to riding straight over them. Watching a few riders take dabs this way, the next rider just fired straight across them, showed that grip was present and hey presto, the common line was shown.

The Evo as always was brilliant and a joy to ride but I am now getting twitchy and after getting back on the green route, I can’t wait to get back on the old stuff again.

Looking at the observer list we have the regular group who always give up their time as well as a few new people. A big thanks go out to everyone who stands around, waves us in, picks us up and marks our scores. Likewise the team who mark out the sections, the signing on and result team and Chris for his catering always are appreciated. Finally a big thanks to the land owners for giving us access to such a great venue.

We are still waiting for formal confirmation of the venue for the 13th May so keep an eye on the facebook page for more details. Currently it is planned to be a revisit back to the quarry.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Paul Smart, Triumph (10); Dave Wood, BSA (17); Kev Ellis, BSA (21)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Paul Owen, BSA (2); David Beddoes, Villiers (4 FC); Phil Alderman, Triumph (4)

Pre 65 Clubman: Graham Miller, Triumph (1 FC); Roger Smith, BSA (1); Peter Cockings, BSA (6)

Pre 65 Beginner: No enteries

Twinshock Expert: Chris Gascoigne, Honda (12); Jim Williams, SWM (22)

Twinshock Intermediate: Chris Kent, Bultaco (1 FFC); Adrian Kent, Bultaco (1 FC); Daniel White, Yamaha (1)

Twinshock Clubman: Phil Jones, Yamaha (3); Kev Williams, Honda (23); Phil Roberts, Yamaha (24)

Twinshock Beginner:Steve Williams, Bultaco (2)

AC Mono Expert: No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Young, Gas Gas (0); Martin Powell, Honda (4); Jeremy Sutton, JMC (6)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Honda (17); Andy Steele, Yamaha (30)

AC Mono Beginner: Pete Thomas, Fantic (1)

Modern Mono Expert: Graham White, Vertigo (4); Jake Jones, Beta (30); Matt Murton, Beta (54 FC)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Paul Hempkins, Beta (6); Mark Bill, Beyta (8); Andrew Dean, Beta (11)

Modern Mono Clubman: Phil Clarkson, Beta (3); Steve Walker, Sherco (10); Jason Davies, unlisted (13)

Modern Mono Beginners: Neil Parker, Sherco (2); Jim White, Gas Gas (7); Pete Rainsford, Montesa (12)

Observers:

Sec 1 – Izzy

Sec 2 -Ange

Sec 3 – Jan

Sec 4 – Dave

Sec 5 – Annette

Sec 6 – Gordon

Sec 7 – Russ

Sec 8 – Mark

Sec 9 – Kev Lyon

Sec 10 – Geoff

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 22

Twinshock – 20

A/C Mono -12

Modern Mono – 26

Total = 80

Classes

Expert – 10

Intermediate – 38

Clubman – 25

Beginner – 7

Bikes

Pre 65:

Banville – 1

BSA – 10

DOT – 1

Francis Barnett – 1

James – 2

Norton – 1

Triumph – 5

Villiers – 1

Twinshock:

Aprillia – 1

Bultaco – 4

Fantic – 1

Honda – 5

Montesa – 2

SWM – 1

Yamaha TY – 6

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 1

Fantic – 2

GasGas – 2

Honda – 3

JCM – 1

Yamaha – 3

Modern Mono:

Beta – 12

GasGas – 4

Montesa – 3

Ossa – 1

Sherco – 3

TRS – 1

Vertigo – 1

Event report by Rob Sloggett, Mark Gaskell, Mark Newman and Richard Beddoes

One Hundred and One! Not my final points tally (although it could have quite easily have been that). Nope, 4th Feb 2018 was the landmark date when Aqueduct broke to 100 rider number for a standard club championship round. And what a venue to do it at.

Dave and the Kynaston family have invested a signficiant amount of time over the last 12 months to continually develop Nant Ucha Farm into one of the favourite practice and event venues in North Wales and the working party over the New Year break opened up a new section of the stream which really got the riders excited (but more on that later on).

The 101 riders saw 31 Pre 65s enter (with 15 BSA’s and 6 Triumphs topping the marque list) and at the other end of the spectrum, 33 modern monos (with 21 Betas making up the pack). A healthy 24 twinshocks and 13 Air Cooled Monos made up the rest of the entry list and the swelling in numbers (from the normal average of 75-80 riders) seemed to have been split evenly across the classes.

The intermediate route continues to be hugely popular with 41 riders contesting this class. As always it great to see new riders coming through the ranks and some new names appeared in the 10 beginners, so welcome to those riders enjoying their early taste of motorcycle trials, we wish you well on your journey.

Mark Newman – James 250 (Intermediate Route)

Firstly let me say this was one of the best trials I have ever been too, loved every bit of it and a massive thanks to the obsevers who stood out in the cold.

Section 1. This looks worse than it rode, very muddy slippy slope dropped down to the left side. You touched the brakes early here and you were defo lying in the mud. You just had to turn in, point it down the muddy bank and let it roll in the stream. Over the water across the rocks, give it some gas up the banking and over the tree roots, keep the momentum up across the mud and out the end cards. Simples!

Section 2 was on the new bit of land as well. The same bit of steam just along abit. A drop back into the stream, sharp left turn, follow the water, right turn out the stream, plenty of gas up the bank and around a tree. Then over the fallen tree, back across the steam, up the bank, over the root and out again. Sounds so easy …

Section 3, most of us have been up this climb before. It is very steep and loose and will always catch you out. A third of the way up, off to the right around a tree, back onto the climb trying hard to stay to the left because you need to go out to the right, it levels out then a short steep bank to exit. This caught me out on the second lap for a 2.

Section 4 was into the stream following it along and over all the rocks to then head over to the right for a couple of big rocks to get over. Mind the tree hanging in the section, you need to be just right but too far right and you hit the tree. Too far left and your wedged on the rocks. Be committed and your out but got me 3 times for a dab.

Section 5 starting in the stream, then a tight right turn out of the stream with a cluster of rocks to get over. Then an immediate left turn run your front wheel onto the base of the tree or you hit the rocks on the left. It got me for a dab here ! A wobble on the cambered slope, right up the greasy snarly rocky slope working hard over the rocks and out .

Section 6 was a short blast up the track then drop down back to the stream where the start cards presented you with rocks and small waterfalls. Into the stream, a wink at the good looking observer, up and over the rocks where you can be thrown around and lose it here. Momentums was your friend here, aim for the V between the rocks , get it right as I did on all but the first time through, and it seems easy. A few larger rocks to contend with, go round or over it works both ways and a short blast to the end.

Section 7 and no pressure on this as Russ is observing. Similar to 6 into the steam, keep going over the slippy rocks, up between a large “pair” and it levels out over the fallen tree stump. Back over the stream and out. I think the pressure got to me a couple of dabs on the first lap.

Secton 8, on no the bloody godfathers on this section! Its always a 5 ….. A couple of tight turns in the mud then an off camber bank that need a good blast to get high up to avoid slipping down to the right and a nice stump sticking up about 6 inchs that you have to navigate around. Up sharp and tight to the left, over the crest and point at the end cards, jobs a good one. I needed a single dab on the first lap.

Section 9 and over to the other field and into the very tight, twisty, rocky, rooty, muddy, slippy stream. Up the stream, into a muddy hollow, out over the tree roots ,leaning right to avoid slipping back in. A few metres along a drop back into the stream following it round, back out to the right, a blast up the slippy bank and back into the field.

Finally Secton 10 was just along from 9 and the same stuff but starting in the slippy field. No drive at all, sliding about to get to the section although once through the start it dropped into the stream with various rocks and debris. Then up onto a plato, along it, drop back in, turn to the right and a good drive out keeping the momentum going over the slippy slimy grassy mud.

The bike ran faultless, more rider errors than needed, all good challenging sections but cleanable. Silly dabs dropped me to 4th in class and the  same old storey “can do better”.

Mark Gaskell – Triumph Twin (Intermediate Route)

Nant Ucha Farm was packed to bursting, glad I got there early! I had a novice rider with me, riding in her first trial. I had my doubts as to whether she was ready, but as usual, teenagers know better! I was riding the green, or intermediate route, on a 350 Triumph Twin,

 Section 1 was the first of the sections in the recently cleared area. A greasy off camber bank, down into the stream, over a jumble of rocks and out again. This proved to be easier than it looked, if you got the camber right.

Section 2 had a tricky entry to the stream, then a short sharp climb round a tree, over a log and out across the stream.

Section 3 combined some previous routes with a slalom up a steep bank, with a 270 degree turn on the bank before the exit. I couldn’t quite manage this without a foot or two.

Section 4 was a ride up the stream, and up the “waterfall”. It was a case of taking the right line, and I managed it once!

Section 5 started in the stream, then wound its way out over the rocks. I used a combination of delicate clutch control, and indelicate throttle application.

Section 6, back into the stream, over a jumble of rocks. The exit of this turned out to be trickier than it looked, and had me making some interesting shapes to stay within the gates!

Getting to section 7 gave me wet feet, as the girth of the Twin put me deeper into the stream than most, and therefore over boot tops. The section itself would have been easy enough, if I hadn’t been put off by my wet feet.

Section 8 contained a nasty looking, root infested climb, that you approached on a full lock turn. My first attempt surprised me, when I flew up with ease. So surprised that I put a foot down. Next time I was less surprised, and did it properly.

Section 9 was an old favourite, in and out of a narrow stream, up and down the banks.

Section 10 an old favourite in reverse. I had a spectacular 5 here last time, so was pleased to clean it first lap. Second lap and back to normal, as I slipped off the step and fell into the bank for my first 5 of the day.

Sadly for me, my novice rider was worn out by now, and with time pressing we had to retire early. She know understands why I thought more practice was necessary, but is keen to try again. Thanks again to all concerned, a super trial.

Richard Beddoes – BSA C15 (Intermediate Route)

The Trial at Nant Ucha was the first time I have rode my 61’ BSA C15 so expectations were mixed between spending the day with the bike in bits or having no mechanical issues.

Section 1: Starting on new land right at the bottom of the stream was fantastic, although the previous weekend I was there on my 4RT so apologies the mud was probably my fault 😉 The drop into the stream was eventful involving composure and calm but determined to ensure a clean on the C15s’ maiden voyage I stuck with it, the stream was deep in places but I find the trick is to lean back with legs apart and keep relaxed. Straight cleans on this one.

Section 2: The drop into the stream and tight left hand turn meant good positioning was key; again weight back to reduce the risk. Its surprising how bad body position can lead many into a tricky situation. A gentle climb up the hill with the C15 wound right up, I was told on several occasions how good she sounded! The jump over the log at the end meant full commitment, one to divide the experienced from the not so confident! Front wheel up and weight back, ignore the rear end Straight cleans all round again!

Section 3: It would appear my luck ran out here, spending the previous day working on the bike (Trying to sort the useless AMAL carb) I forgot to adjust the chain. The steep climb up to the top and sharp left step before the short turn meant the chain came off leaving me stranded with egg on my face. The turn at the top was the trickiest part, timing it right and keeping the C15 going, I dropped too many marks here with some schoolboy errors. I looked back and saw my Dad, probably thinking ‘What a fruitcake, get out the way’ Move on…..

Section 4: This is a section that’s hard even on a modern bike, (I know all too well) straight up the stream on slippy rocks, with a rather difficult exit up an angled rock with a double step in the stream, its really east to get caught out here. A repeat of section 3 on attempt one meant a trip back to the car to sort the chain, somehow my Dad and I (It was mostly my Dad but I’m going to pretend I did all the work) took a link out by tapping it out with a hammer through a ring spanner. This section took a figure of marks from me I would rather not state.

Section 5: Returning after the chain adjustment and some swearing, myself and my Dad proceeded to walk section 5, though to the observers amusement (I do not know the ladies name) we walked straight past the inters flags trying to face the fact we had to ride the expert route. Once we ‘readjusted’ our priorities and pretending we knew all along the weave through the rocks out the stream and up the hill was very tricky but I managed to clean this every time even with how tight it was and conditions worsening.

Section 6: I always find this part of the venue difficult but also one of my favourites. Dropping in towards the observer, and up a series of natural steps in the stream it can really knock the bike about, especially the turn at the end towards the exit of the stream with roots and slippy cambers. A few marks lost here but nothing major.

Section 7: Russ and Co. watch in anticipation, a bumpy and short start with no run up, especially when your blowing out your ‘a##e’ from the last one. A diagonal path across the stream with some jagged rocks to catch you out, keep the power on and sort the line. Straight cleans here

Section 8: Right at the top of the hill, this was pure greasy banks, no streams or grippy areas. First gear and plonk along, with a tight turn up the hill and an awkward camber to, weight back and weight on the outside leg, straight cleans here.

Section 9: Only a foolish ‘works’ dab lost here, with a gentle ride up the stream, nice and consistent.

Section 10: This took a few more marks than I was expecting A drop into the stream on the far side throwing your balance off, heading up the stream then towards an awkward and at times hard to judge line between a rock and a bank. You had to stay on the camber and getting the step up onto this was key, I had some slack dabs here and really I should have had a clean sweep!

Overall a brilliant event well set out as ever. Thanks to the organisers and observers being out in the cold to set out and keep an eye on us all I hope we get more events like that.

Rob Sloggett – Beta Evo (Expert Route)

I missed out on Januarys event due to a shoulder injury so I was a bit worried tackling only my 3rd attempt at the Red route and not riding for a few months. Nothing to worry about though, Aqueducts sections at this level are challenging but not dangerous. Everything is rideable and within the capability of the bikes (lets be honest they are marked out for Experts on big Pre65’s so a super light Evo 200 should not be phased by it)! My personal target of getting down to an average of 80 marks at this level seems miles off and during the event it felt like I was closer to 130 than the 89 I ended up with. I have learnt that to ride at this level I am not fit enough and my arms are taking a battering so as well as develping my riding technique it looks like a regular visit to the gym might be needed! But what of the sections?

Well the two new sections from the opened up area were incredible. The stream is quite open at this part and the banks offer soft inclines, steeper rutted steps and some great fallen logs. Section 1 was my first nemesis and whilst the early parts of turns and banks I was able to master, the exit which was a left turn 180 degrees arch across the stream face finished with something really different. The end point was a steep stepped bank (about 2 foot) but as you approached it a heavy log about 10 foot long ran parallel to the bank through the mid point of the stream and about 3 foot away from the bank. A really tricky combination as you struggled to approach it straight on. This took 16 marks from me and only 3 Experts managed single figures.

On the flip side, Section 3 was an area we practiced regularly but the clerk of the course and his team had found a really good twist of the established contours and a banked climb was staggered in an S profile with tree stumps and rooted cambers giving you something to think about. When I hooked into this I was clean or a single dab in that part of the section but as my energy levels depleted my last 2 runs resulted in a 2 and a 3.

Section 7 was my final hurdle. This frustrated me as on paper it was no different to the other stream sections. Enter in the section, 2 or 3 small waterfall steps, a turn across the stream and a non complex exit. For some reason I just could not get the flow and this section took 16 marks off of me and well out of the norm of the rest of the Experts across the bike classes. The common link is that Russ was observing this and at Plas Onn I had a similar issue with his section. I put it down to stage fright in front of my riding role model……

A great event and all credit to the organisers for managing the 100+ rider turnout, The observers as always were fantastic and kept the sections flowing as best as possible.

Our next event is the opening Kia round on the 24th February at Plan Onn then we return to the club championship in March on Sunday 18th. As always we have to close by passing on a big thank you to the Club Team, the observers, Chris for his catering and the Kynaston family for the use of such a splendid venue.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Paul Smart, Triumph (14); James Francis, BSA (18); Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (19)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Stephen Smith, Triumph (3); Carl Winstanley, James (4); Dave Beddoes, Villiers (6)

Pre 65 Clubman: Roger Smith, BSA (11); Rob Goodwin, Francis Barnett (41); Tim Godsmark, BSA (46)FC

Pre 65 Beginner: no enteries

Twinshock Expert: Dave Wood, Bultaco (25); Antony Charles, Fantic (42); Terry Musgrave, SWM (45)

Twinshock Intermediate: Paul Cook, SWM (7); Stephen Knight, Fantic (12); Rob Jones, Honda (14)

Twinshock Clubman: Phil Jones, Yamaha (18); P Groth, Montesa (22); John Sowden, Bultaco (39)

Twinshock Beginner: Bryan Devereux, Yamaha (29); Craig Fowler, Yamaha (108)

AC Mono Expert: Dean Devereux, Honda (22)

AC Mono Intermediate: Martin Powell, Honda (10); Robin Foulkes, Gas Gas (17); Ian Emery, Yamaha (19)

AC Mono Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha(35)

AC Mono Beginner: No finishers

Modern Mono Expert: Gareth Roberts, Beta (19); Dan Williams, Montesa (24); C Hughes, Beta (29)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Lewis Hurdsman, (Beta (14); Paul Hempkins, Beta (22FC); Luke Roocroft, Beta (22)

Modern Mono Clubman: George Waring, Montesa (6); Kevin Williams, Gas Gas (14); Glyn Evans, Beta (23)FC

Modern Mono Beginners: Paul Trevor, Beta (25); Lisa Bolton, Beta (36); Harry Trevor, Beta (60)

Observers:

Sec 1 – Gordon

Sec 2 – Harry

Sec 3 – Annette

Sec 4 – Roger

Sec 5 – Ange

Sec 6 – Dave

Sec 7 – Russ

Sec 8 – Geoff

Sec 9 – Izzy

Sec 10 – Mark

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 31

Twinshock – 24

A/C Mono – 13

Modern Mono – 33

Total = 101

Classes

Expert – 22

Intermediate – 41

Clubman – 28

Beginner – 10

Detailed Split

Pre 65 Expert: 8

Pre 65 Intermediate: 14

Pre 65 Clubman: 9

Pre 65 Beginner: 0

Twinshock Expert: 6

Twinshock Intermediate: 9

Twinshock Clubman: 6

Twinshock Beginner: 3

AC Mono Expert: 1

AC Mono Intermediate: 10

AC Mono Clubman: 1

AC Mono Beginner: 1

Modern Mono Expert: 7

Modern Mono Intermediate: 8

Modern Mono Clubman: 12

Modern Mono Beginners: 6

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 15

DOT – 1

Francis Barnett – 3

James – 4

Triumph – 6

Villiers – 1

Twinshock:

Aprilla – 1

Bultaco – 2

Fantic – 5

Honda – 2

Montesa – 2

SWM – 3

Yamaha Majesty – 2

Yamaha TY – 6

Yamaha Whitehawk – 1

Aircooled Mono:

Fantic – 2

GasGas – 3

Honda – 3

JCM – 1

Montesa – 1

Yamaha – 3

Modern Mono:

Beta – 21

GasGas – 4

Honda – 1

Montesa – 2

Ossa – 1

Sherco – 2

Vertigo – 1

Unlisted – 1

Event report by Rob Sloggett, Ian Emery and Paul Owen

When 82 bikes turn up to the first event of the season with some riders travelling a couple of hours to get to the start you know you are onto a good thing as a club. Maybe it was partly down to the return to Nant Mawr after a four year period or the tightness of the 2017 Championship setting people up for an early battle. It could even be the fact that it had been 35 days since most people had been able to get their hands on one of Chris De Burgers breakfast rolls, either way it was a great start to the year.

Unfortunately due to a shoulder injury, I was unable to ride and waking up Sunday morning I could not even move my arm enough to drive to observe so this months report is kindly provided by Paul Owen and Ian Emery. The usual thanks go out to all of the organisers, helpers, observers and the land owner for making such a great event and start to 2018 possible. I am sure it will not be another 4 years until we are back!

Paul Owen – Intermediate (Pre 65)

It was a cold chilly day with over 80 riders turning up for round 1 of the Championship. Set inside the dished shaped quarry, there were 10 sections running around from left to right, 5 sections in the cold damp tree lined slippy greasy clay and mud and 5 sections in the open sun soaked rocky sections. Normally I do a report on my 2 best sections but this time I will do my 2 worse sections. I was riding my new twinshock bantam (as I normally ride a rigid) so the excuse book was already out for the challenging green route.

Section 2 was a slight incline up a muddy and clay start gate. Between the bank and tree and onto some slippy roots that caught me out on lap 1. Then we dropped down into a bomb hole and some more slippy roots to some moss covered rocks and a tight right turn to a steep slippy bank to the exit gate.

Section 3 was the downfall of many riders, as you came out of section 2 and your tyres were still deep in mud. The start gate was 2 metres before an off camber wet slippy bank with a immediate right turn down a slope. If you touched the brakes you would be down and into a very large dirty brown deep puddle and with a slight right turn you then droped out to the exit gate. To be honest, it was rather comical watching almost every rider just trying to stay on . Even the observer took a big 5 as he tried to put the flags back on place!

With plenty of laughter and lits of banta it made for a great start to the season

Ian Emery – Intermediate (Air Cooled Mono)

Section 1: Always nice to get the first section out of the way and this one looked a lot more tricky than it actually proved to be. A slippy start dropping into a watery ditch with a right turn and root covered 18ins step to deal with. This was followed by a drop back into the ditch, crossing to the far side for a 180 turn back across and then a 12ft climb up the far bank to make a 180 swooping turn around a tree and back down to the ditch where a tight 90 left led to the ends. Needed full concentration but cleanable.

Section 2: Another slippery lead-in to the in cards to then thread your way between two pairs of trees with mossy rocks and exposed roots catching a few, followed by a gentle sump with a wide exposed root which caught me for a dab twice as the back kicked out. Next was a 90 right over some awkwardly placed rocks to a 5ft climb with no real run-up. Exposed roots on this climb caused many to lose marks as grip disappeared and momentum was lost.

Section 3: This was a tricky one! A slippy climb again with no real run-up with a slight L to R camber drawing you towards a tree on your right which you had to pass left before a 90 right steeply down a gripless embankment towards a very uninviting muddy pond which had to be crossed before climbing the far bank and down the the ends. The descent had little grip and both wheels were sliding sideways with the camber as I battled in vain to stay feet up. I did escape a cold bath though but I saw others that didn’t.

Section 4: Began with a slippy climb and right turn, to a rock step on the turn, to then pass top-side of two trees with the camber and the exposed roots (again!) making it hard to stay on line down to the end cards.

Section 5: This began with a climb which threaded its way up the hill, in and out of trees and over rocks, over a fallen branch, and even more slippy roots! A 180 turn at the top led to a snaking descent around various footrest snagging rocks before a left to the ends.

Section 6: Slippy roots replaced by dry rocks from now on. This section dropped from the edge of the quarry wall down to a 180 left through water to then meander in between various jumbo rocks climbing back to the quarry wall, gently to the right and down and to the end cards.

Section 7: This began with a twisty climb over several rock steps to the edge of the next quarry wall and was followed by a twisty descent back down. Fairly straight forward unless you caught some of the rock steps on the wrong line which proved costly for some.

Section 8: A short section with a sting in the tail. A traverse across loose rocks to then make a 90 right across a nasty jumble of bigger rocks with several choices of line. Keeping to the left gave a flatter route but rocks either side threatened to grab a footrest, whereas a foot to the right meant lifting the front wheel to ride over a bigger rock which also gave a better line to the next pair of flags leading to a gentle left and out. What made the section even more interesting was in this tricky middle bit there was a rock about 10ins cubic which seemed to be in a different place every lap and needed a quick decision each time whether to avoid it or just ride over it.

Section 9: Began with a gentle climb with a rock step with another right turn over several bigger rocks which were tricky to get over without the odd dab. Again picking the right line was crucial here to escaping clean or needing a steadying dab to get through.

Section 10: Back to wet and slippy. An immediate short climb followed by a right led to a sweeping right turn which was a little like riding around a rocky basin with the mossy rocks all randomly placed to prevent any easy line from being chosen. My only clean was by taking a wide line and riding up and over all the rocks in my path whilst trying not to let the fear of the front nose-diving in the gaps in between put me off. Once round this basin the final rocks led you to the left but the flags were placed so you had to steer out of this natural line, over another rock, then left to the out cards. A great section taking marks of most.

All in all, some really good varied sections making full use of the terrain and a credit to the clerk of the course and organisers.

Dont forget that Round two of Aqueduct Classics Championship will take place on Feb4 th at Nant Ucha Farm Garth ( aka Kynastons ) LL20 7YH Start 1100 hrs.

It will be signed from A483 Ruabon roundabout onto the A539 Llangollen Rd.

As usual, we will have four routes, Expert, Intermediate, Clubman, Sportsman/Novice/Beginer and all  classes accommodated (ie Pre 65, Twinshock, Air Cooled Mono, Modern Mono). Whatever you’ve got if it rides, bring it along and have a go !!!! Hot food available all day and non members are welcome to join us.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert:James Francis, BSA (11); Kev Ellis, BSA (57); Vernon Roberts, BSA (61)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Phil Alderman, BSA (11); Phil Clarkson, BSA (12); Paul Owen, BSA (17)

Pre 65 Clubman: Stephen Smith, Triumph (11); Roger Smith, BSA (23); Graham Miller, Triumph (37)

Pre 65 Beginner:Alec Roberts, BSA (18)

Twinshock Expert:Matt Spink, Aprilla (21); Ian Jones, Fantic (44); Julian Price, Fantic (49)

Twinshock Intermediate:Jim Williams, SWM (5); Paul Cook, SWM (8); Stephen Knight, Fantic (9)

Twinshock Clubman: Keith Jones, Yamaha (17); Phil Jones, Yamaha (25); John Sowden, Honda (37)

Twinshock Beginner: Bryan Devereux, Yamaha (2); Ken Powell, Yamaha (45)

AC Mono Expert: Steve Bird, Yamaha (3); Dean Devereux, Yamaha (12); Terry Musgrave, Beta (65)

AC Mono Intermediate:Gordon Wilson, Honda (17); Ian Emery, Yamaha (19); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (27)

AC Mono Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha (30)

AC Mono Beginner: Pete Thomas, Fantic (27); David Evans, Fantic (29)

Modern Mono Expert: Dan Williams, Montesa (31); Declan Marsden, Gas Gas (53)

Modern Mono Intermediate:Paul Hempkins, Beta (6); Dave Lovell, Montesa (8); Spencer Bradley, Gas Gas (40)

Modern Mono Clubman: Steve Walker, Sherco (16); Kevin Williams, Gas Gas (18); Ken Williams, Montesa (20)

Modern Mono Beginners: Michael Wilding, Beta (9)

Observers:

Sec 1 – Geoff

Sec 2 – Roger

Sec 3 – Gordon

Sec 4 – Annette

Sec 5 – Harry

Sec 6 – Dave

Sec 7 – Russ

Sec 8 – Mark

Sec 9 – Jan

Sec 10 – Chris

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 21

Twinshock – 27

A/C Mono – 15

Modern Mono – 19

Total = 82

Classes

Expert – 15

Intermediate – 39

Clubman – 21

Beginner – 7

Bikes

Pre 65:

Arial – 1

BSA – 11

James – 1

Jawa – 1

Triumph – 7

Twinshock:

Aprilla – 2

Armstrong – 1

Bultaco – 2

Fantic – 8

Honda – 4

Montesa – 1

SWM – 3

Yamaha TY – 6

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 2

Beta –  2

Fantic – 3

GasGas – 1

Honda – 2

JMC – 1

Yamaha – 4

Modern Mono:

Beta – 7

GasGas – 4

Honda – 1

Montesa – 5

Sherco – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett

So December has come around and we have had the last event in Aqueduct’s 2017 Championship. With January looming its time to make your 2018 New Years Resolutions (but more on that later).

So what of Decembers event? Well 77 riders turned out on a wet day for a fantastic days competition. Plas Onn can always turn up surprises and the 10 Experts were really put to the test with the 38 riders in the Intermediate class sharing significant parts of the Expert routes. It is great to see riders coming up through the classes and the Clubman and Intermediate routes continue to be the most popular although with 9 Beginners at this months event and a regular feed through Steve’s Twin shock Experience the club continues to attract a great cross section of skills.

Whilst trying up the results page, a great scrap appears to have been had in the Intermediate Air Cooled Mono class with Paul Cartwright really starting to hook into his Gas Gas giving Ian Emery a run for his money. Likewise in the Twin shock Clubman route, only 1 mark stood between Pete Thomas and Chris Jones. This ripples across the classes with 4 marks separating the top 3 riders in the Twin shock Inter group, the Pre 65 Inters from 1st to 11th only having a handful of marks between each rider and the list goes on. 2018 looks to be in great shape!

In the Modern Mono class it was great to see the new Vertigo machine in a club riders hands and after only 2 weeks on his large wheel Beta 80, Jake Jones seems to be looking very comfortable. Whilst not everyone’s bag, it has always been the clubs policy to run and accept modern machines and allow them a Championship class of their own, the logic being by integrating them into the club it keeps the numbers up but more importantly exposes rider of these machines to the older classes and hey, one day they just may jump.

So what about the event and my ride? Well my second full entry in the Expert Class on the Evo was a real challenge. My aim is to ride this class next year to really push myself and help with my learning and exposure to different terrain and techniques but on a modern bike which is bit more forgiving and lighter (hopefully making me a better and more competitive inter rider on the older machines).

My aims (or New Years Resolutions) for 2018 are to move on from that target for the last 2 events which was to compete each section with a minimum of at least one successful attempt (3′ even if the other 3 laps were 5’s). I achieved this at Plas Onn albeit with a total score of 120 (aver 3 per section). So for 2018 my target is to get down to 80 by midyear and 65 by year end! Lets see how it goes…

But what of Plas Onn? Well the Expert route was a real challenge. Nothing dangerous but a real set of good challenges. So what were my highlights?

Well Russ was on Section 2 an this was a real treat. My main challenge here was the exit. A 40 – 50ft incline broken down into four distinct steps made up of roots, banks or rock steps (but not in a direct straight line so minor course adjustments were needed between each). I was unable to find a natural rhythm and on the first 3 laps failed at different points but was pleased on the last lap to get out for a scrappy two.

The next Section (3) in a similar way was simple to view but tricky to ride. Dropping into the section, a 180 right hand uphill turn fed straight into a narrow uphill gully strewn with roots. Adjacent to the root cluster on the riders right had side was a 2ft drop and this really phased me. After getting off line on the first attempt and getting a five my brain just locked on the following attempts. My worry of committing to hard, getting off line and being kicked right stopped me from really committing and carrying enough speed to get me over the rocks. As before, two additional fives and scrappy 2 was the result. Plenty learnt and something to reflect on and practice.

Section 5 on the other hand had everything on my favorite list! What a great complex section. Dropping into the section into the stream you immediately had a 2 ft bank step with a root running across it. Up the bank, around a tree and drop back into the stream, the opposite bank then had a 4 step staircase. Yep, 4 concrete steps in the side of a muddy bank! The usual loop up and down some banks then drop back into the stream for the exit up a lovely rock waterfall. Probably about 5 ft high and enough angle and loose rocks to keep you busy, Loved this section and ended up with a respectable total of 6 marks.

The next sections were all stories of a similar theme. Loads learnt, plenty to challenge me and a great workout for me and the bike. I must admit it was great to try the Evo in both first and second across the sections and get use to how the power comes in and pulls. I think by the last 6 sections on the last lap I had ran out of energy  but went home with a great smile on my face.

As always, thanks have got to go to the organisers, observers and everyone who works endlessly in the background to keep the club running which allows us to do the sport we love.

The first competition for 2018 is on the 7th January and Nant Mawr Quarry. See you all there.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, BSA (40); Darren Walker, AJS (101)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Phil Alderman, Triumph (8); Roly Jones, Ariel (12); Vernon Roberts, BSA (15)

Pre 65 Clubman: Terry Lloyd, Triumph (8); Roger Smith, BSA (12); Peter Cottrell, BSA (27)

Pre 65 Beginner: No enteries

Twinshock Expert: Tony Gush, Majesty (24); Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (73); Julian Price, Fantic (79)

Twinshock Intermediate: Adrian Kent, Bultaco (4); Stephen Knight, Fantic (5); Paul Cook, SWM (8)

Twinshock Clubman: Mark Litherland, Bultaco (16); Phil Cottiga, Fantic (23); John Sowden, Honda (30)

Twinshock Beginner: Pete Thomas, Fantic (37); Chris Jones, Yamaha (38)

AC Mono Expert: No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Cartwirght, Gas Gas (22); Ian Emery, Yamaha (26); Martin Powell, Honda (34)

AC Mono Clubman: Steven Blaxall, Fantic (27)

AC Mono Beginner: No finishers

Modern Mono Expert: Jim Barrie, Vertigo (52); Jake Jones, Beta (74); Declan Marsden, Gas Gas (81)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Jim Droughton, Montesa (56); Spencer Bradley, Gas Gas (75); Patrick Forde, Beta (77)

Modern Mono Clubman: Steve Walker, Sherco (21); Hayden Raindford, Sherco (25); Jim Marsden (44)

Modern Mono Beginners: No enteries

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 21

Twinshock – 30

A/C Mono – 9

Modern Mono – 17

Total = 77

Classes

Expert – 10

Intermediate – 38

Clubman – 20

Beginner – 9

Bikes

Pre 65:

AJS – 4

Banville – 1

BSA – 8

DOT – 0

Francis Barnett – 2

James – 0

Norton – 0

Other – 0

Triumph – 1

Villiers – 0

Twinshock:

Armstrong – 0

Beamish Suzuki – 0

Bultaco – 7

Fantic – 8

Honda – 4

Kawasaki – 1

Montesa – 1

Ossa – 0

SWM – 3

Yamaha Majesty – 1

Yamaha TY – 6

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 2

Beta –  1

Fantic – 2

GasGas – 1

Honda – 2

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 9

GasGas – 2

Honda – 0

Montesa – 1

Scorpa – 0

Sherco – 3

Vertigo -1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett

A wet start to the day made me think “should I”?

It did not take me long to move on and say yes. Why not! Its at Nant Ucha so its under a good canopy, I was riding the Evo for the first time in ages, I was having a go at the Expert route and most importantly I was out to meet my trials buddies, so whats a little rain.

I am so glad I did, as did the 71 riders who turned out on Sunday 5th November for a day that started with layers and gradually warmed up to normal riding gear. This event saw a good mix of 20 Pre 65’s and 22 twinshock, with 13 AC Monos and 16 modern monos making up the entry. Once again, the highest entry class was the popular intermediate route with 28 riders taking up the challenge.

Nant Ucha always makes for a great event and whilst their are some regular favourite sections, once again Russ and the team were able to keep it fresh and interesting by reversing some sections or throwing in some twists on the regular theme. The new parking area provided by Dave and the family has also made the venue even more event friendly, certainly with some of the colder / wetter months coming up.

With only two events left in the 2017 Championship and some of the places still left to contest it was always going to be a tight event and once again the final results show a nice balanced table.

For those of you who know my story, I have dotted across a number of bikes the last few years. Mainly the Bultaco and a TY Mono turned into a twinshock to learn sidecar. The Beta Evo has played last fiddle as I focused on the TY and Bultaco to attempt the intermediate route. I have never felt confident to tackle the Experts on the older machine. I know my capability and know that I was likely to run the risk of injuring myself but the modern bike is a bit more forgiving and I always promised myself when the time was right I would try that route on the Evo. So that’s what I did and it was so the right choice. I have always believed that trials is about 60% technique and 40% psychological approach and having practiced regularly at Nant Ucha, the likelyhod that the routes will stretch me and force that 40% to the surface as i was “forced” to ride a route in practice I would probably shy away from was quite an attraction.

Well Section 6 and 8 immediately did that!

Section 6 was a stream that we regularly practiced and the waterfall at the end was actually on my bucket list 6 years ago to ride up and ride down (ticked that one off a few years ago). That was the waterfall before the storm reshaped it. The route (taken by the green route) was our regular practice line this year but the bit to the left for the Experts was something we never touched (and so lies the lesson – in competition you have to ride what is put in front of you)! So what did I think? Well the first lap I took the easy option. The flags had two lines, a 4 rock climb to the left which was quite steep and to the right a more forgiving route but involved a left hand turn on the approach followed by a right hand turn as you traversed the climb over a number of misshaped rocks and slabs. I elected for this route on the first lap, taking a couple of well planted dabs to ease my way up. Happy with that, on the second lap a chat to the observer made me aware that most riders were getting up the harder left hand side without a problem so the only option really was to give it a go.

A little tip here. Observers are brilliant for helping you improve. It is one of the reasons I observe regularly as you get to watch other riders lines and techniques. Having a chat with the observer on the second lap on sections you are struggling on can sometimes have great benefits. Anyway back to the section.

Having seen Messer’s Bou and Raga throw modern bikes up much harder things I realised the bike was capable. It was just about mastering the 60/40 split above. My head told me that “technically” I could get lined up and squirt the throttle with some reasonable body position. The 40% psychology aspect was the problem! My brain told me “nah -you will only five it or worse crack a rib, or maybe the bike will slip out from under you and then you won’t be working tomorrow will you….”. But what is the point of stepping up the class if you fold at the first hurdle. So I entered the section thinking on Mr Bou and Raga, cleaned it up the river bed and lined up for the waterfall. All I can remember is getting up it quite smoothly and slightly overshooting the turn out of the out gates as I carried a little to much speed, but a reassuring dab corrected that and I think I exited for a single dab. Result! The final two laps I think were a dab and a clean and a massive smile on my face and I had conquered a demon.

Section 8 was a different outcome. Once again, an area we regularly practiced but the twisty turns with the rock aspects were something we had not added before. That was all straight forward and really helped to fine tune slow control and a little bit of obstacle climbing but the key challenge here was a short sharp incline up a root infested bank. Once again, this bank had a varied aspect that went left to right with a more serious aspect of gradient and concentration of roots. We normally stick to the left hand side but the expert route was covering the right hand aspect. A significant gradient of 10-15 ft climb with a tree to the right hand side and a collection of 3 muddy roots. Regardless of my line or speed of attack I could not get this. Once again the bike was more than capable but on this occasion my mind would not allow me to attack with the right closing speed and roll off. Fears of the bike grabbing grip and throwing me backwards or carrying to much speed over the roots and getting airborne prevented me from mastering this section. Two fives and two threes were the best I could muster but a specific obstacle to clean in the next practice session.

The other highlights of the Expert route were the range of new obstacles in the stream sections and some great climbs and banks in the other sections. Am I happy that I tried the Expert route? Absolutely. I know at the moment I would not be confident tackling them on the twinshock or AC Mono bike and I am comfortable riding around the inter route on these machines but the confidence the modern bike gives has allowed me to experience the harder sections and bridge that 40% psychological gap and maybe one day…. just one day the Bultaco would be treated to a set of blue and red flags.

As always, a huge thank you to the observers, organisers, signing on team and section plotters. Not forgetting Chris for the catering on a cold day and also the Kynaston family for the use of the land.

You will notice a few photos on this report courtesy of Jan Jones and Roger Kenyon. Many thanks for taking these. The full selection can be found on the Aqueduct facebook page.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Peter Edwards, BSA (38)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Vernon Roberts, BSA (11); Roly Jones, Ariel (13); Keith Gardner, Triumph (14)

Pre 65 Clubman: Roger Smith, BSA (11); Peter Cottrell, BSA (17); Terry Lloyd, Triumph (21)

Pre 65 Beginner: No finishers

Twinshock Expert: Tony Gush, Majesty (9); Matt Spink, Beamish (12); Dave Wood, Gareli (20)

Twinshock Intermediate: Paul Cook, SWM (15FC); Adrian Kent, Bultaco (15); Jim Williams, SWM (23)

Twinshock Clubman: Phil Cottiga, Fantic (16FC); Peter Cockins, Fantic (16); John Sowden, Honda (27)

Twinshock Beginner: Chris Jones, Yamaha (45); Craig Fowler, Yamaha (50)

AC Mono Expert: No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Young, GasGas (14); Ian Emery, Yamaha (19); Martin Powell, Honda (23)

AC Mono Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha (22); Steven Blaxall, Fantic (26)

AC Mono Beginner: Chris Macgillivray, Fantic (25); Chris Matthews, Fantic (32); Pete Thomas, Fantic (36)

Modern Mono Expert: C Hughes, Beta (40); Cleif Roberts, Beta (47); Rob Sloggett, Beta (92)

Modern Mono Intermediate: P Hempkins, Beta (25); Andrew Dean, Beta (36); Spencer Bradley (42)

Modern Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Montesa (19); Mark Bill, Honda (25); Kevin Hillidge, Sherco (27)

Modern Mono Beginners: Pete Rainsford, Montesa (29)

Observers:

Sec 1 – Zara

Sec 2 – Ben

Sec 3 – Ange

Sec 4 – Addie

Sec 5 – Annette

Sec 6 – Gordon

Sec 7 – Laura

Sec 8 – Russ

Sec 9 – Dave

Sec 10 – Rob

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 20

Twinshock – 22

A/C Mono – 13

Modern Mono – 16

Total = 71

Classes

Expert – 11

Intermediate – 28

Clubman – 19

Beginner – 13

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 8

Francis Barnett – 2

James – 2

Triumph – 7

Twinshock:

Beamish Suzuki – 1

Bultaco – 3

Chase TY – 1

Fantic – 4

Gareli – 1

Honda – 2

Montesa – 1

SWM – 2

Yamaha Majesty – 2

Yamaha TY – 5

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 1

Fantic – 3

GasGas – 2

Honda – 2

JCM – 1

Yamaha – 3

Modern Mono:

Beta – 9

GasGas – 1

Honda – 1

Montesa – 2

Sherco – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett

Well, Pen Y Graigs event on the 1st October has got us into a position where their are only two more events in the Championship (but more on that later). The long break since Plas Onn on the 2nd July (only broken by the Kia round and the Foel non-championship) expected to see a good turnout. Unfortunately the event clashed with another Kia round so entries were down on the normal number but that did not stop the 58 riders turning out to a great days competition.

As always the clerk of the course and his team made superb use of this excellent venue with some firm favorite areas exploited and a few new bits thrown in for good measure. For me, Section 10 on the inter route was a great opportunity to test some little used skills. An entry up a short double bank then required a left hand turn to then traverse a left side drop camber comprised of earth and rocks. A quick right / left up camber combination then resulted in a short downhill run with a curved run out on the flat but strewn with rocks.

Section 5 was also an interesting one for me and appeared to take marks across the inters. A simple entry then required a right hand turn with some roots showing as you entered a short gully. Dropping into a small opening you were then presented with a short upward climb with a twist. The first climb was straight forward but you were then presented with a second climb offset about 5 foot to the left. This required a tight S turn to realign which killed momentum and really required smooth control at the throttle point. Too late and you bogged down, to early and you ran the risk of missing the climb. To make things worse, at about 2/3 of the way up, the rear wheel really bit in lifting the front wheel. A great section!

So what of the results? Well an interesting couple of observations (sorry no pun intended). Firstly 4 of the results were sorted by furthest clean (mine being one of them)! This for me is one of the great aspects of this sport. Reviewing the results and seeing the outcome so tight is such a great feeling as firstly it gives you someone close to really compete against (in a lighthearted sporting way….) but also makes you think “damm, that one stupid dab I did not need in Sec x….. argh….”. Both Mono clubman and Mono inters top positions were decided this way. Such great tight competition!

Also in other classes the results were so tight. Pre 65 inters positions 2 to 4 were separated by only 3 marks, clubman positions 2 to 5 also by 3 marks and the list goes on. We are really lucky to have a great level of competition and whilst everyone has the odd bad day  (needless to say I have had plenty of those in the past), the venues, course set up and classes always give everyone the opportunity to have a good competitive days sport.

So what of the Championship? Well with 2 events left, some classes are near enough sewn up. But what of those where it is wide open?

Well the Pre 65 Clubman class is going to be interesting with 5 riders between 109 and 90 points. Whilst Terry Lloyd is out in front on 109 with the next 2 riders sharing 92 points each, Roger Smith could, if on a good run close this gap significantly. Lets not lose sight of Keith Baddley and Graham Miller, both on 90 who could really upset the final standings. Peter Elvidge has not ridden since round 5, but if he appears back on the scene, who knows what could happen.

In a similar way the Twinshock Inter group are tight between 2nd and 4th. Jeremy Suttons DNF on this event has left the door open for Alex Barrie to take the 2nd place spot and with their finishing places being so close this will be a great one to watch come to a conclusion.

With Phil Cottiga and Keith Jones trading blows (not literally) in the Twinshock Clubman class, it only takes John Sowden to get in between them and mathematically anything could happen.

Aircooled Mono looks pretty sewn up as does the Modern Mono class but I am sure people are scrutinising the table and planning their last 2 events as well as asking themselves if next year is the time to move up to the next class.

We look forward to seeing you all at Nant Ucha on the 5th November and until then, dont forget that this superb venue is available for practice.

As always, thanks has got to go to the organisers for such a fantastic event. The observers as always were brilliant and the back room team keeping the signing on and results flowing always need recognition. Oh and Chris for the food….

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, BSA (29)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Vernon Roberts,BSA(1); Mark Newman,Triumph(15);Tim Lewis,BSA(16)

Pre 65 Clubman: Roger Smith,BSA(1(; Graham Miller,Triumph(4); Mark Gaskell,Triumph(5)

Pre 65 Beginner: No enteries

Twinshock Expert: Tony Gush,Majesty(8)

Twinshock Intermediate: Jim Williams,SWM(8); Stephen Knight,Yamaha(8); Adrian Kent,Bultaco(10)

Twinshock Clubman: Keith Jones,Yamaha(2); Phil Cottiga,Fantic(3)_; Mark Litherland,Bultaco(10)

Twinshock Beginner: Steve Williams,Bultaco(12); Chris Jones,Yamaha(34); Craig Fowler,Yamaha(35)

AC Mono Expert: No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Ian Emery,Yamaha(14);Neil Francis,Aprilia(19); Paul Cartwright,GasGas(26)

AC Mono Clubman: Steve Blaxall,Fantic(12)

AC Mono Beginner:No enteries

Modern Mono Expert: Declan Marsden,GasGas(46)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Andrew Dean,Beta(23FC); Rob Sloggett,Beta(23); David Molyneaux,Montesa(41)

Modern Mono Clubman:Tony Rainford,Sherco(4FC); Hayden Rainford,Sherco(4); Spencer Bradley,GasGas(6)

Modern Mono Beginners: Nigel Rigg,Honda(7); Ewan Edwards,Oset(11); Pete Rainsford,Montesa(30)

Observers:

Sec 1 – Albert

Sec 2 – Annette

Sec 3 – Harry South

Sec 4 – Gordon

Sec 5 – Geoff

Sec 6 – Dave

Sec 7 – Russ

Sec 8 – Brad

Sec 9 – Aidy Green

Sec 10 – Jan

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 15

Twinshock – 19

A/C Mono – 6

Modern Mono – 18

Total = 58

Classes

Expert – 3

Intermediate – 25

Clubman – 23

Beginner – 7

Bikes

Pre 65:

AJS –

Banville –

BSA – 8

DOT –

Francis Barnett – 1

James – 1

Norton –

Other –

Triumph – 4

Villiers –

Twinshock:

Armstrong –

Beamish Suzuki –

Bultaco – 5

Fantic – 3

Honda – 3

Kawasaki –

Montesa – 2

Ossa – 1

SWM – 1

Yamaha Majesty – 1

Yamaha TY – 4

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 1

Beta – 

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 2

Yamaha –

Modern Mono:

Beta – 6

GasGas – 5

Honda – 1

Montesa – 3

Oset – 1

Scorpa –

Sherco – 2

Event Report by Rob Sloggett and Ian Emery

A lower than normal turn out due to some other events did not dampen the spirits and the 43 riders who turned out at Pen Y Graig were not disappointed with a great event.

As well as the normal competition it also turned into a bit of an informal workshop as Mark Gaskell rolled out his latest project and took the opportunity to get a range of advice on fine tuning activities. Mark has moved through modern mono, into twinshock and is now contesting the Pre 65 class which really fits in with the spirit of what the club is all about in my opinion.

Rob Sloggett (Observer) – Section 9

A shortage in entries can sometimes mean a shortage in observers so I took the opportunity to grab a board and dive in. I really enjoy observing as it gives you a unique opportunity to watch the other riders techniques and lines which ultimately can help make you a better rider. I had Section 9 which was just off the beaten track in a bomb hole type basin, so I positioned my bike at the top of the drop in to give the early riders a bit of a visual prompt.

A great section for all classes had a fantastic rock step early on for the Experts, a nice tricky across camber climb for the Intermediates (with a cluster of rocks on the exit), a nice challenging 180 around a tree for the clubman and a simple meander with changing textures for the beginners. As I said, for me the benefit of observing comes from watching the other riders and it was great to see the Experts in action with what was a formidable obstacle.

Once through the entry gate they were presented with a simple set of choices. Ninety degrees to the left a drop into a gully presented a set of flags about 20 feet apart. Why 20 feet? well they had three options:

1) A hard drive up a steep bank with a loose surface

2) A jagged rock step

3) Between the two options above a climb up the same steep bank but more grip, the downside being the entry in being more complex

The first lap saw all 5 Expert riders attack the step with a range of scores ranging from fives down to a two I recall. On the second lap, Kev Ellis, after taking a five on the first lap stood back, assessed the route and tried the third option for what I recall a single dab (but cleaning that main part). That was it, route for the rest of the day decided with only a few riders still attempting the rock step (I think more out of a “you wont beat me” rather than optimum route!)

Intermediates did not have it easy either with the entry missing the step but still being presented with a left to right camber to climb before dropping down around a tree. Once they cleared that aspect they were then presented with a diagonal run across a cluster of rocks with a left turn off of them. Unfortunately on the left had side was a slightly larger cluster at the end which caught a few rides out on their sump guards for the odd dab and in extreme cases the odd five.

A really good section which I thoroughly enjoyed observing. It is always great seeing the riders of all ages having a great time.

Ian Emery – Intermediate (Yamaha TY Mono)

Section 1 was a double climb firstly over moss strewn jagged rocks and followed by a clay embankment. It looked daunting but a straight line approach proved successful for many but some failed to get enough traction on the clay to make the top where others got too much grip just at the wrong time and got ejected off the back. I ran 1st gear for 3 laps but a slack dab on the third lap had me using 2nd for my final attempt.

Section 2 was another that looked straightforward but needed full concentration to stay clean. It started with a climb to the right with a tight u-turn left around some trees, to then drop back across the path to a 20ft climb and immediate 90 right at the quarry face to then traverse a very slippy, moss covered camber and down across two sets of polished tree roots and out. Very easy to lose the front crossing these obstacles.

Section 3 was my joint favorite of the day. In cards took you up and to the left before an immediate tight banked U-turn to the right, across a camber which fell quite sharply away to the right, the issue being that we had to make a tight left and climb a very slippy clay bank of c10ft before turning left again and heading down for the out cards. I watched this carefully before I had a go and saw some riders lose the front slipping away to the right at the base of the climb and others just not having the momentum and/or grip to make the climb itself. I chose a reasonable pace in 1st and attacked the climb at 45 degrees letting the front lift a little as the back got stuck into the grip. It worked for me with three cleans and a 1 which I was well chuffed with.

Section 4 was another which used the right embankment of the path with a tight u-turn back down and a double climb with dropped into a sump followed by a very tight right, and another, and another to the end cards.

Section 5 was my other joint favorite. A descent across a camber with an exposed root just where you didn’t want it to be, to then thread yourself left right between three trees with a rock protruding just where you didn’t want it to be, followed by a cambered right turn and across to then make a left up the hill and aim for the best bit – a double staircase of jagged, slippy rocks, some loose, some fixed, which once up and over led to a tight left and out. I managed two hard fought cleans, a 2 and a 1 which again I was very pleased with. The suspension of the Yamaha being fully stretched but working superbly.

Section 6 started with a muddy bog crossing which caught a few out, followed by a greasy step between two trees and a drop down between two footrest snagging rocks, to then go tight left and head through slippy mud to the out cards. Full concentration needed to stay feet up.

Section 7 started with a dry climb up a rocky bank and down the other side, to then make a tight u-turn left between two trees and over a jumble of fairly big rocks. One rock was about 15ins cubic and moved around during the day. For two laps I squeezed past on the left, then one lap to the right, and on the final lap it was bang in the middle and I had no choice to ride straight over it with the Yam’s suspension seeing me safely over. After these obstacles there was a double climb to the right with two steps that claimed marks if you weren’t fully committed or spun you to a halt if you had too many revs.

Section 8 – I just couldn’t get to grips with this one! An immediate right through the in cards followed by a left over a jumble of rocks to a cross camber which fell away to the left just as you were required to turn right and start a very steep climb of c10ft. Control of the front wheel was crucial on this turn with many coming to grief as the camber took their front away. If you mastered the turn and made the climb the next bit was even more challenging as you dropped into a steep sided bomb hole which you had to climb out bearing slightly to the right. The front had to start climbing out before the back had finished falling in causing a compression effect in the middle which led me to have two 1’s and two 2’s in my efforts to get through. A great section!

Section 9 started with a left turn and up a clay covered bank which had a lot more grip than it portrayed. A long swooping turn to the right followed by another nice jumble of nasty rocks to cross before turning left and out. Again full concentration required.

Section 10 started with a gentle right turn falling into a tricky right turn over a fallen tree which moved back and to as you crossed it making it difficult to maintain control for the swooping banked turn that followed. After that was a climb to a blind summit before dropping sharply down, up across some more rocks and right between two trees to the end cards.

I enjoyed every section as each had its own challenges and each flowed superbly using the terrain to its best – a credit to those who gave up their time to set them out, thank you again. I couldn’t fault the Yamaha – it did everything I needed it to do and got me out of trouble on many occasions.

All in all a great day’s sport. As always, our thanks have got to go to the land owners, the club officials, section setters, observers, catering team and results crew who make everything happen. A special mention from me also to those people who offer their time and knowledge to help maintain some of our bikes where we either don’t have the time or the skills.

Our next event will be on the 1st and 2nd of July at Plas Onn. On Saturday we have a fun trial commencing at 3pm with the usual Championship Round on the Sunday. Camping and catering is available and for those who have not come to this 2 day event, it really is a good weekend of fun and socialising.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, BSA (66)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Mike Hughes, Triumph (12); Vernon Roberts, BSA (21); Barry Jones, BSA (29)

Pre 65 Clubman: Graham Dukes, James (9); Steve Jones, BSA (10); Peter Cockins, BSA (12)

Pre 65 Beginner: Ray Critchlow, Triumph (4)

Twinshock Expert: Tony Gush, Majesty (20); Ian Jones, Fantic (41); Dave Pengiley, Kawasaki (44)

Twinshock Intermediate: Jim Williams, SWM (6); Stephen Knight, Yamaha (17); Alex Barrie, Honda (28)

Twinshock Clubman: Phil Cottiga, Fantic (11); John Sowden, Bultaco (15); Chris Forshaw, Montesa (21)

Twinshock Beginner: Steve Williams, Bultaco (5); Pete Thomas, Bultaco (9); Chris Jones, Yamaha (16)

AC Mono Expert: No entries

AC Mono Intermediate: Ian Emery, Yamaha (12); Gordon Wilson, Honda (42); Paul Cartwright, GasGas (42)

AC Mono Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha (23); Steven Blaxall, Fantic (23)

AC Mono Beginner: No entries

Modern Mono Expert: No entries

Modern Mono Intermediate: Patrick Forde, Beta (94)

Modern Mono Clubman: Mike Sutton, Beta (49)

Modern Mono Beginners: Ken Williams, Beta (1)

Observers:

Sec 1 –  Albert

Sec 2 – Annette

Sec 3 – Kevin Lyon

Sec 4 – Mark Litherland

Sec 5 – Mr Cartwright

Sec 6 – Russ

Sec 7 – Brad

Sec 8 – Rocky Holland

Sec 9 – Rob

Sec 10 –  Geoff

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 15

Twinshock – 17

A/C Mono – 8

Modern Mono – 3

Total = 43

Classes

Expert – 5

Intermediate – 19

Clubman – 13

Beginner – 6

Bikes

Pre 65:

AJS –

Banville –

BSA – 7

DOT –

Francis Barnett –

James – 3

Norton –

Other –

Triumph – 5

Villiers –

Twinshock:

Armstrong –

Beamish Suzuki –

Bultaco -3

Fantic – 3

Honda – 1

Kawasaki – 1

Montesa – 2

Ossa – 1

SWM – 1

Yamaha Majesty – 1

Yamaha TY – 4

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilla – 2

Beta –  1

Fantic –

GasGas – 1

Honda – 1

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 3

GasGas –

Honda –

Montesa – 

Scorpa –

Sherco –

Event Report by Mark Gaskell and Richard Beddoes

We hope you enjoy reading this months event report. We have tried to give you as much information as possible and it is interesting this month amongst the 91 entries to see that a third were cleanly split across both the Pre – 65 and Twinshock classes with 15 BSA’s and 7 Bultacos topping the bike marques on this event. It is great to see how healthy the entries are in these classes. Another surprise in the numbers was 40 riders contesting the Intermediate route. The extra challenge provided by this class appears to be getting very popular!

This month we have also added in a section with the names of the observers. As well as acknowledging the help they provided to allow us to compete, it is nice to see their names so you can get to know them in person… As always a big thanks goes out to these volunteers who consistently turn up to help us enjoy our days sport.

Finally the usual thanks to Dave and the Kynaston family for the use of the venue and it was great to see you observing as well. We hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did.

This months event report is kindly contributed to by Mark Gaskell and Richard Beddoes.

Mark Gaskell (Intermediate) – Triumph Tiger Cub

The good weather seemed to boost the turnout, with a very full car park hinting at queues ahead. Nant Ucha is a fabulous venue, but narrow paths and streams require patience. At least you get to have the craic, and if you’re in a rush, you’re in the wrong sport!

Section 1 proved to be my nemesis this week, two 5’s for failing the step, a 5 for clearing the step, managing the bank, but then riding the wrong way through the exit, and a hard won 3.

Section 2 was the first of the (dry) stream bed sections, only my loss of concentration lost me a 3.

Section 3 involved a sinuous route over slimy rocks, which took 4 marks off me early on, until the slime wore off.

Section 4 more sinuous slimy rocks, followed by a short steep bank, and a long run out to the end. Looked far worse than it was, and I cleaned it three times. We won’t discuss the fourth attempt.

Section 5 gave me a distinct sense of deja vu. Same section, and same observer at which I had a tank/ Crown Jewels interface some months ago. That’s my excuse for a wobbly 3, fear!

Section 6 was a tough one. Slimy, sinuous rocks, with a slippery step that put you (me) on the wrong line for the exit, therefore ensuring that you (me) paddled through the end in a fairly pathetic fashion. At least that’s what I thought the observer said….

Section 7, and more of the same, with three flights of steps and a log to contend with. I managed this far better, only losing a 1 when put off by another competitor, who shall remain nameless (Moz)

Section 8. Rocks. Steep bank out of the rocks, then back to the rocks. Rocky.

Sections 9 and 10 were joined, and flowed together, like a stream. A slimy rock infested stream, with rocks, and slime. Sorry, got carried away there for a minute! A silly dab at the start of section 9 ruined a clean sheet there, which was a pity. The exit to section 10 needed very precise positioning, which is why I only cleaned it twice.

Great to see so many familiar faces at the start, and a huge thank you to all who contributed to such a splendid trial. I ache now, but in a good way.

Richard Beddoes – Beginner/Easy AJS 500cc Single Rigid

A glorious day in sunshine, with friendly faces and plenty of interesting bikes to admire, Nant Ucha is where I practice on my modern 250 beta to hone my skills. The chance to ride the big AJS there proved challenging, and very difficult at times, a rigid rear end, and a total weight of 160KG’s makes the AJS a real exhausting and often frightening venture, but it is very rewarding! When queuing and speaking to people they were very interested in the bike, but they also made funny comments, such as ‘Are you crazy?’, ‘You’re a brave man!’ & ‘You must be mental!

Section 1: Not much to challenge here, straight across the top of the bank and didn’t even have to get wet!

Section 2: Rather more of a challenge, starting in the twisting gulley, planning the route was key with the AJS as turns and greasy rocks make it a real fight, dropping only one mark but I was pleased with the result

 Section 3: Right at the bottom with Mr Kynaston kindly observing, straight across the stream proved easy enough, the only real challenge being the step at the end, but I still managed to get the bike airborne!

Section 4: Dropping into the water the only real test here was the turn before heading up the bank, the AJS is so wide that getting maximum width on turns is key but I managed to get to the top comfortably for a good blast along the bank

Section 5: Straight into the water again and creeping through the rocks, they were very greasy and kicked the bike around, maximum attack here to keep feet up and prepare for the climb out which I needed plenty of speed for.

Section 6: This section proved to be the hardest technically, starting on the other side of the stream into the first right hand bend I had to get the line right for the second tight right hander, with a big horrible rock in the middle. Straight across the stream and up the bank and it still wasn’t over; I had to force the AJS over a big tree root avoiding a rock, towards the end gates. I made a real hash of this on the first lap but the second lap amazingly I cleaned it!! Frankly, the bike could have packed up there Id have still been smiling pushing it back, loved it!!

Section 7: Amazingly only one mark lost, through three long stretches of rocks and deep pools of water, a ‘works’ dab here saw me through and I even think that by accident on the last lap I rode some of the inter route! (Always up for a challenge)

Section 8: A deceptively hard section, only one line on the easy route in my opinion over the slippy rocks, my best ride was a dab on the last lap, the first lap I stalled on the turn followed by the words Bo****ks (apologies to bystanders and readers….)

Section 9: Only one attempt, the turn at the top round the tree put me in a bit of a mess and thundering back down the hill wasn’t worth the risk, three 5’s requested from an understandingly sympathetic observer (Most observers are curious as to why you ask for a five, to which I pointed at the AJS and received an agreeable nodd)

Section 10: Only one attempt following number 9, a near ripped off exhaust put this one out of the running for me but the first 8 were great for me I would like to thank all the observers and organisers for another fantastic event, I will be out on the AJS at the next one for everyone to see, if you would like to try it then just ask, despite the size she ticks over beautifully and is very enjoyable to ride.

Now…….Where’s that plug spanner ?!

Our next event will be on Sunday 11th June at Pen Y Graig. We look forward to seeing you all there.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, BSA (43)

Pre 65 Intermediate: David Beddoes, Villiers (7); Gavin Andrews, BSA (14); Jim Pickering, BSA (17)

Pre 65 Clubman: Mark Lucas, BSA (13); Peter Elvidge, BSA, (16); Les Richardson, Villiers (26)

Pre 65 Beginner: Richard Beddoes, AJS (55)

Twinshock Expert: Phil Houghton, Honda (1); Danny Littlehales, Fantic (18); Tony Gush, Majesty (21)

Twinshock Intermediate: Paul Shacklady, Bultaco (17); Paul Cook, SWM (18); Stephen Knight, Yamaha (20)

Twinshock Clubman: Graham Pennington, Bultaco (47); Phil Cottiga, Fantic (48); Matt Hopkins, Yamaha (49)

Twinshock Beginner: Chris Jones, Yamaha (83)

AC Mono Expert: Phil Hulme, Yamaha (30)

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Young, GasGas (12); Ian Emery, Yamaha (34); Paul Cartwright, Beta (51)

AC Mono Clubman: Steven Blaxall, Fantic (54)

AC Mono Beginner: No entries

Modern Mono Expert: Tomos Price, Sherco (67)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Lewis Hurdsman, Beta (19); Paul Hempkins (19); Sam Storr, Beta (28)

Modern Mono Clubman: Paul Grocott (31); Richard Corbett, Beta (32); Thomas Atherton, GasGas (35)

Modern Mono Beginners: No finishers

Observers:

Sec 1 -Albert

Sec 2 – Geoff

Sec 3 – David and Laura Kynaston

Sec 4 – Zara Lloyd

Sec 5 -Christine

Sec 6 – Mark

Sec 7 – Angela

Sec 8 – Jan

Sec 9 – Gordon

Sec 10 – Annette

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 32
Twinshock – 31
A/C Mono – 10
Modern Mono – 18
Total = 91

Classes

Expert – 14
Intermediate – 40
Clubman – 27
Beginner – 10

Bikes

Pre 65:
AJS – 1
Banville – 1
BSA – 15
DOT – 2
Francis Barnett – 1
James – 2
Norton –
Other – 1
Triumph – 6
Villiers – 2

Twinshock:
Armstrong – 1
Beamish Suzuki – 1
Bultaco – 7
Fantic – 5
Honda – 5
Kawasaki – 1
Montesa – 1
Ossa – 1
SWM – 2
Yamaha Majesty – 2
Yamaha TY – 4

Aircooled Mono:
Aprilla – 2
Beta –  2
Fantic – 1
GasGas – 1
Honda – 2
Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono:
Beta – 8
GasGas – 2
Honda – 1
Montesa – 1
Other – 1
Scorpa – 1
Sherco – 4

• 

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Ian Emery and Paul Owen

Sunday 22nd May saw what originally started as a mild day turn into a set of changing weather which challenged the riders as the sections appeared to offer fresh surprises each lap. The 65 riders turned up to the day on 22 Pre 65’s, 20 twinshocks, 7 Aircooled Monos and 16 modern Monos. The class split was broken down into 8 Elite, 18 riding 50/50, 32 Clubman class and always it was great to see 7 beginner’s including Rhys Bagnall on his Oset 20 Light.

This months report is kindly contributed to by
Rob Sloggett (Observer Sec 4)
Ian Emery (50/50 Twinshock)
Paul “Moz” Owen (50/50 Pre 65)

Paul Owen:
The day starts off as a lovely spring morning with the sun shining, but as we started the trial at 11am it started with light rain as we got to section 1 inside the old rugged Quarry. What then followed was a monsoon, but we all stayed and had fun. I was riding the green route (50/50) on a rigid bantam.

Section 1 was under the rock face and with a steady rise up the bank and around to the right then left down a bank and just kissing the muddy pond you climbed back up the top of the bank to a sharp right turn, down a greasy bank to the out gate. Section 2 was across an old stone wall, zig zaging up and down over roots and the loose stones of the wall. It was very tricky and made you smile if you cleaned it. Section 3 was a slippy section from the rain, climbing up a large mound with an option of a sharp right turn or a slippy left drop back to the path then around the mound to a steady climb and either drop down the bank to a sharp turn back up or you could attempt the slippy roots for an easier exit, just missing a tree.

Section 4 was a short climb to the left then a climb to the right with a fallen tree that so many lost the front end on, that led to a steady ride to the exit gate around some trees. Section 5, was a long rockyish climb between some trees to a sharp left turn down a greasy bank with a rock to help you stop or in my case do a face plant! then an off camber slippy exit. I think I made the observer laugh with my rest in the middle of the section (haha). Section 6 was in a rocky bog, with large rocks to tackle and 2 sharp right hand turns on the bank. It was challenging for the rigid bantam.

Section 7 was a large rocky step followed by a tight turn up an off camber bank, across some more large rocks and to a steep drop down to the exit gate. Section 8 saw you drop down a slippy bank and immediately across some large rocks to a steep drop off to the exit gate. Section 9 looked easy as you had a tight right turn then a big rock which caught a few out including me, then a greasy mossy long climb up the bank that got grippy after the first 2 laps, then followed by a downhill bank to the exit.

Finally Section 10 was a nice easy one to finish the lap with a short steep bank around 2 trees to the exit.

Ian Emery:
For this report I thought for a change, it would be good to give my thoughts on two sections where it all went right for me and two where it didn’t.

Section 2 with Albert in command – I just couldn’t get a flow in this one. The section swept up the bank and across a log to the right before dropping back down over loose rocks and over a nasty 6ins sawn off tree stump which always seemed to catch my rear wheel and throw me off line for the slippy 180 turn that followed. This opened into a sharp step and right turn over more jagged, loose rocks before dropping back down towards the end cards. I never managed a clean with 2,2,3 followed by a 5 on lap 4 when I locked the rear on that stump and stalled. From the book of excuses I blame this 5 entirely on me being so wet and cold I couldn’t get proper feedback from the brake pedal proving my decision not to bother with waterproofs as “it wouldn’t rain that much” to be a daft one.

Moving to Section 3 I fared much better. A short climb followed (for my chosen line) by a steep descent to the left, a 180 turn back across a dip to a 90 left over exposed roots, to then squirt across the camber onto a narrow target ledge before turning sharp left and down around several trees to the ends. Some riders chose a different line taking an immediate right at the top of the first hill but this made crossing the dip very steep and I saw several riders in trouble. 0,0,0 and a daft 1 near the end cards for me.

Further on we get to Gordon’s section, no.8. This was a tough one with a sharp descent between two rows of rocks to then turn left and up the bank aiming for a “V” between two footrest snagging rocks, which if you got past led immediately to two smaller rock steps before swooping across the top of the embankment to turn right and down a steep descent to the ends. The best I managed was a 1, with a couple of 2’s, and a cold shivery 5 on the last lap locking the rear again on the opening descent.

Then came Section 9 with Anette observing, taking shelter high on the bank under the big tree. It started with a full lock sweeping right turn over a jumble of rocks, with no run up to a big cubic lump of rock which caught my sump each time as I tried to hop over it. In less than a bike’s length followed a tight 90 left and straight up a 15 foot steep climb to where Annette stood, followed by another short climb and up round a another tree to then begin the steep descent to the ends. I watch Harry Lyons on his Bantam approach the big climb and with clutch in, gave it a big handful of revs before dumping the clutch and just flew up the hill. Many others didn’t. I took a different approach not being a fan of touching the clutch once in a section, and let the Ossa chug round the left turn a smidge over tickover before squirting it at the hill, fighting the rear for grip whilst making sure I didn’t get too much and end up thrown off the back. Four cleans for me which I was well chuffed with.

Credit must go to the observers who sat/stood through some of the heaviest, persistent rain I’ve seen for a long time. As a rider at least you generate some body heat, as an observer you don’t but I noticed some had more sense than me and wore waterproofs. Thank you all including a very wet Roger Kenyon who didn’t expect the rain either.

Rob Sloggett:
Where else can you get to watch a pre 65 Matchless 350, queue up with an Oset 20 Lite (that’s 900w/36v for those that are interested). A wet day did not dash the riders spririts, even those who started the day in mild weather gear and did not bother to then get changed as the rain poured down.

Section 4 was a really interesting if not slightly long section broken down into 3 distinct phases. The entry pitched the riders up a bank with a 180 deg on camber turn. Beginners and Clubman had a gently turn, although with the changing weather the climb up the bank took a few 5’s from those not quite reading the lack of grip accurately enough. The 50/50 and Experts had a higher climb up the bank and then a loop around a tree with the Experts having a tighter turn, following the natural contours of the root system. Dropping down for the 2nd phase, the Beginners and Clubman had an easy run into the 3rd phase whilst the 50/50 and Experts once again had a climb up a low bank, with an immediate left hand turn over a log which rose up from the apex, forcing the front wheel into the curve unless the front wheel was lifted. An immediate right turn then ran the rear wheel over a hidden root which caused it to slide, taking a number of dabs off of the riders. The 3rd phase mixed it up a bit with the Beginners having a wide swing to approach a left hand turn and curved climb towards the end markers. Clubman and 50/50 had to extend further into the section with a left hand turn around a tree and a climb out across a camber. Finally the Experts had a series of tight left / right turns across a variety of gradients before linking up into the clubman route.

As a regular rider, it’s always nice to be an observer every now and then and whilst I could comment about some great rides in the Elite group, demonstrating great bike craft and an understanding of the terrain, for me the stars of the day were the beginners, some only just at the early stages of their competition experience but giving it their all. It’s no surprise that the majority of these were on smaller capacity machines as these give a safe and forgiving introduction and allows the riders to fully develop their balance and throttle control without getting themselves into trouble.

It was also great to see a number of riders not just moving classes but also bike types and I have got to say how comfortable Mark Gaskell was looking on his Tiger Cub after moving from a Sherco to a Whitehawk.

As always, a big thanks to the organisers, observers, catering team and land owners and we look forward to seeing you all at Plas Onn on the 5th June for the next event.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Top Places:

Pre 65 Elite: James Francis, BSA (8); Russ Jones, Francis Barnett (20); Kev Ellis, BSA (22)
Pre 65 50/50: Harry Lyons, BSA (12); Mark Newman, Banville (33); Tim Lewis, Triumph (34) tie with Steve Walker, Francis Barnett (34)
Pre 65 Clubman: Jon Flower, BSA (7); Roger Smith, BSA (9); Graham Miller, Triumph (12)

Twinshock Elite: Paul Smart, Fantic (12); Stephen Knight, Fantic (33); Julian Price, Fantic (36)
Twinshock 50/50: Rob Jones, Honda (25); Ian Emery, Ossa (29); Alex Barrie, Honda (38)
Twinshock Clubman: Karl Kavanagh, Fantic (12); Steve Jones, BSA (18 FC); John Sowden, Honda (18)
Twinshock Beginners: Bill Beverage, Fantic (19)

AC Mono 50/50: Gordon Wilson, Honda (34); Paul Cartwright, Beta (51)
AC Mono Clubman: Neil Francis, Aprilla (7); Steven Blaxall, Fantic (17); Andy Steele, Yamaha (19)

Modern Mono Elite: Tony Gush, Beta (4)
Modern Mono 50/50: Declan Marsden, GasGas (37)
Modern Mono Clubman: Andrew Dean, Beta (17); Nick Macgillivray, Montesa (20) tied with Steven Creaser, GasGas (20)
Modern Mono Beginners: Wayne Francis, Sherco (39); Tyler Jones, Sherco (45); Rhys Bagnall, Oset (47)

Class Breakdown:

Pre 65 – 22
Twinshock – 20
A/C Mono – 7
Modern Mono – 16

Elite – 8
50/50 – 18
Clubman – 32
Beginner – 7