Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Paul Owen and Steve Blaxall

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Its probably no coincidence that the remake of 101 Dalmatians was release round about Christmas in 1996, and what a way to parody this by having 102 bouncy trial rider pups (I know its a very tenuous link!) turn up to Decembers trial at Plas Onn for the closing event of the 2019 calendar!

With no nasty Glenn Close character to be found, only happy faces and warm smiles on this chilly day were treated to a very well deserved thank you to Harry South who was hanging up his observer board to the last time. I did not realise the pure breadth of Harrys observing activities (not just at Aqueduct) and it truly is people like this who ensure that week in, week out we get to enjoy our sport! A final thank you from me Harry.

So how did the numbers break down? Well in terms of classes we had 32 Pre 65’s, 30 Twinshocks, 10 AC Monos and 30 Modern Monos. Across the routes we had a great turn out of 20 Experts, back on the Green flags saw 40 Inters, 29 Clubman and a really health 13 Novice riders.

Can I close this introduction by asking the question…… In what other club could you see a Velocette lining up alongside a Vertigo !!!!!! I think that says it all….

Paul Owen – Pre 65 Inters

It was a cold icy morning up on the frosty mountain tops of the ceriog valley at plas onn farm. It was the final round of 10 and there was 101 competitors turn up for what must be one of the premier classic trials clubs in the uk.

Quality riders from all over the country went head to head to take top step honors to finish off the 2019 season. All 10 sections were challenging and here are 3 of the 10 for the green route. But this trials had a festive Christmas theme with many riders dressed as Santa and his elf’s plus a snowman and a Christmas pudding.

Section 3 was a up stream start in the water. And over a submerged large rock and immediately up a slippy muddy 4 meter high bank and as you crested the top you had a meter drop off and back down the bank into the stream that almost seen me going over the handlebars . and then another similar climb and decent on the opposite banking . Then back into the stream to the exit gate .

Section 5 was interesting as there was a reindeer in the section. But at a closer look it was the observer in his Christmas fancy dress costume. Ha-ha. We drop down off the path into a rock stream gully, we had to keep to the right and that brought us out and across a muddy off camber bank that wanted to drag you down and so easy to take a dab to save losing the front wheel, we then dropped down across the stream to the left and a steady climb over a rooted bank and back into the up hill rocky stream and with a sharp right up the bank and to the exit gate.

Section 9. This was a drop down a slippy bank into and across the stream and straight up a muddy bank into the field. The dropped back down and across to the other bank. Then back down again but this time we stayed in the freezing water in the stream and we picked a line over the green slippy rocks and then into a very tight left turn and I steep climb over rocks next to the waterfall and then a right turn and out gate. On lap 3 I was just about at the top of the waterfall section and I lost traction but then it gripped and the front wheel was up high. I managed to put my right foot down to save it but with a muddy slippy rock my foot was on the move. And with this the bike did a perfect 180 degrees pirouette and I plunged down back into the stream. Luckily with some fancy foot work I managed to stay upright , then I looked up the banking and seen about 20 riders waiting there turn. Hopefully they didn’t recognize me as i was dress in a Santa suit. Hehe.

Finally I’d like to thank all the observers and members of the Aqueduct Classic trials club for all there hard work and efforts. Roll on 2020. And merry Christmas and a happy new year to everyone

Steve Blaxall – AC Mono Inter

I arrived at a very cold Plas Onn confident that i would stay warm for the day in my Santa outfit. It was great to see so many riders turn up in fancy dress and having a laugh. Sad to see Harry hang up his clip board but good to see the warm send off he got. I’m sure his services will be missed. Here are the 3 sections which kept me thinking – even after the trial had finished :-

Section3 – A straight enough but narrow approach along the left side of the stream, where the stream bent left ,we carried straight on and immediately up a steep climb muddy bank. At the summit was a slight left turn with a nasty little drop off back into the stream up the opposite bank, turn right, back down across the stream turn left and out. 1st lap was a right royal cock up! Concentrating far to much on the narrow approach, i had no speed at the foot of the climb, gave it far to much throttle and half way up the climb all i could see was my petrol tank. I had to bail out. That’s a 5 then. Next lap a bit worried i would repeat the same, i made an effort to keep up my speed before the climb. It worked. With a little extra burst of throttle at the foot of the climb the bike went up with relative ease. I was surprised, The rest of the section just seamed to flow. Think i learnt something there.

Section8 – Simple enough or so i thought when i walked the section. Wrong! Very muddy down hill approach in to the section, follow the stream down hill a little then turn right and out up on to the bank. turn round and back towards the stream. Here was the real problem for me. A very tight down hill, left hand turn around a tree in to a shallow channel. The section then went gently uphill to the right with a left turn to the exit. The turn around the tree got me every time. I did not have an answer for it. Still don’t! I’m still thinking about it.

Section10- Right turn down the bank, across the stream. Turn right again in the muddy edge of the stream and back across the stream. Take care to miss the large rock on the left and go up the opposite bank, turn left at the top back into the stream and line up for the rocky climb out, turn left at the top and out. Was finding this section really flowed well for me. Until lap 3! . Not sure really what happened. But the large rock i needed to miss. think i hit it, and down i went. Cleaned the section again last lap. It got me thinking, don’t take a section for granted. Keep your concentration up. Despite wearing a Santa suit all day.

I managed to get an ok result. Yes i got some 5’s but that the way it goes. Really enjoyed the day. The club did a great job handling such a large entry and so did the observers for sticking out the cold. And not forgetting Mr. DeBurger for feeding the 5000. A Big thank you from me for a superb 2019

Rob Sloggett – Twinshock Clubmans

Having not ridden for a few months, I thought I would close the year having a leisurely ride on Clubmans and having a go at getting to know the Majesty better. One thing I do know is that I have been a 1st gear rider and had not really used second in ANY sections, so my aim this event was to where possible use 2nd and get use to the gearing characteristics. This turned out to be a really good and interesting experiment as in most cases, 2nd was really useable, for one section (more on that later) it did get me in trouble and in another I accidently pulled 3rd and discovered just how much low down grunt the Majesty still had…

So what were my three favorite sections of the day? Well first choice had to got to Marks on Section 8. This has always been a favorite of mine as the uphill flowing gully’s between the trees really make you think about allowing the bike to move between your legs. I ended up clean on this one, even after pulling 3rd on my 3rd lap! But every run had the potential to lose the odd dab.

Section 9 was my Achilles heal! What seemed simple section with a drop down a shallow bank, across the stream bed, cut back across and up and around the bank, drop back in then back up the other bank for an easy exit should have been clean all the way for me….. But it wasn’t! 3 on the first lap, 3 on the second…. right stop. What’s different ? Gear choice. Drop down to first for the 3rd lap for a clean and a silly single on the last lap. Analysing my ride, the first transition across the stream and up the bank had me carrying to much speed in second gear, getting me off line and then totally putting me out of my stride. Definitely a good learning exercise, I should have been able to compensate but didn’t so one for the practice area I think….

To be honest the rest were all good and I would struggle to pick another favorite as they all had something different….

As always, we received great feedback on social media and some of the comments are below:

Well today finished off another brilliant Aqueduct Season and what a cracking trial to finish with. Thank You so much to the Accy Team for putting on such cracking trials, thank you to all the landowners for letting us play, a massive thank you to the observers as always I’ve stood there with a clipboard it can be a bloody cold job. Lastly thank you to the riders for supporting both the club & ourselves. Over a hundred riders today, amazing – Chris De Burger

Another amazing event!!! Ace to see everyone in costume!  Can’t thank all the observers enough!! Plus Harry on his last day! I had a excellent ride and only dropped 2 marks. Only been back riding 6 months after 15 years, July Aqueduct trial was my first introduction back into trials, and I have met some amazing people! So as I’ve had 3 wins “one white and 2 yellow” I think I will move up from Clubman’s to Intermediate next January! Hope everyone has a good Xmas See you all again next year – David Williams

Great day at an absolutely brilliant trial today, sections were perfect for the nice wet slippery conditions. Big thanks again to all involved in the setting up and running of all the events this year and I can’t wait for next year. Best decision this year, buying a bike second best, joining Aqueduct Classics. See you all next year – Jeff Hughes

So that concludes 2019….. A BIG THANK-YOU to everyone who has contributed to the event reports. They get read by a lot of people and are a permanent record of the event and paint such a great picture of the club, especially for people thinking about joining us. I hope if you like reading them, maybe in 2020 you could write a short bit as well…

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Top Places

Pre 65 Expert: Phil Haughton, Triumph (4); Chris Gascoigne, BSA (8); Kev Ellis, BSA (20)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Craig Haworth, James (12); Dave Lovell, Triumph (14); Paul Owen, BSA (15)

Pre 65 Clubman: Rober Smith, BSA (8); Jeremy Sutton, BSA (10); Garry Holt (13)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Triumph (17); Alan Dyson, BSA (27); Tarquin Millard, Triumph (54)

Twinshock Expert: Matt Spink, Fantic (7); Paul Smart, Fantic (13); Ian Jones, Yamaha (21)

Twinshock Intermediate: Vince Brett, Honda (7); Paul Cook, SWM (8); David Matthews, Bultaco (9)

Twinshock Clubman: Tony Haughton, Honda (8); Trevor Bennett, Beta (10; Graham Pennington, Ossa (10)

Twinshock Beginner: William Leigh, Yamaha (4); Chris Jones, Yamaha (10)

AC Mono Expert: Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (60)

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Young, Gas Gas (15); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (18); Martin Powell, Honda (28)

AC Mono Clubman: David Lewis, Ossa (7); Ken Williams, Honda (15)

AC Mono Beginner: No enteries

Modern Mono Expert: Colin Sagar. Beta (6); Declan Marsdan, Gas Gas (69)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Nigel Sproson, Montesa (12); Seb Clarke, Vertigo (17); Shaun Clarke, Sherco (17)

Modern Mono Clubman: Colin Steele, Beta (2); David Williams, Montesa (2); Paul Hardaker, Beta (3)

Modern Mono Beginners: Jeff Hughes, Beta (2); Chris Matthews, Beta (8); Charlotte Bloor, Gas Gas (13)

Observers

Section 1 – Harry South (last time ever…. thanks Harry)

Section 2 – Ian

Section 3 – Izzy

Section 4 – Annette

Section 5 – Dave

Section 6 – Danny

Section 7 – Russ

Section 8 – Mark

Section 9 – Pete

Section 10 – Gordon

Bike Stats

Pre 65 – 32

Twinshock – 30

A/C Mono – 10

Modern Mono – 30

Total =

Classes

Expert – 32

Intermediate – 30

Clubman – 10

Beginner – 30

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 11

Francis Barnett – 3

James – 3

Triumph – 12

Velocette – 1

Twinshock:

Aprilia – 1

Beta – 1

Bultaco – 3

Fantic – 8

Honda – 4

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 3

Ossa – 1

SWM – 1

Yamaha TY – 4

Aircooled Mono:

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 3

Honda – 4

Ossa – 1

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 12

GasGas – 8

Montesa – 4

Sherco – 4

TRS – 1

Vertigo – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Trevor Bennett, Paul Owen, Mark Gaskell and David Williams

Whilst the initial forecast promised a 40% chance of rain, the day remained beautiful and dry as we visited Nant Ucha Farm for the last time of 2019. I am sure we will be back again soon next year as this is a very popular competition (and practice) venue and with the stream not being over fast or high, the club was able to mark out a nice mix of muddy banks and rocky stream sections for the 69 riders who turned up.

The riders were broken down into 20 Pre 65’s, 15 Twinshocks, 7 AC Monos and 27 Modern Monos with 7 Experts, 25 Intermediates, 23 Clubman and 14 Novices making up the distribution.

Trevor Bennett – Twinshock Clubman

Firsy Akky trial I’ve done in a good few years, I’ve threatened to but never got round to it, but after doing the Akky Kia trials or turning out to observe them I knew it would be a good do. An early start so a quick check of the weather forecast as I was entered at the Castleside Kia. Pissing down up there, sunny at Nant Ucha. No brainer really as I wanted to give a new to me Beta tr240 a shakedown test before I took it out to the Costa Brava trial in a couple of weeks. Out of the house at 07:30, foggy as a flippin foggy thing so steady away down to the M6. 2 Hours later I pull into the farm in glorious sunshine. Geoffs there to welcome us and have his first rugby dig. Park up as directed, give him a bit of stick back and time for a brew.

Walking down to the butty van I remembered I hadn’t stopped to fill my petrol can up (dozy beggar) and didn’t fancy driving the Sprinter back down that lane against all the traffic coming up. Danny Littlehales sorted me out with a tankful, cheers mate. much appreciated. Bacon butty and brew in hand it was time to go see who’s here. Oh look there’s a Jones a Jones and ooh look another Jones the place is full of them. Sign on with the lovelies Chris and Jan, have a bit of craic deciding which route to ride. The Marks (Samuel and Newman) decided for me and back to the sign on to put the red card back in the box and while I’m there convince Chris it would be a good idea to chaperon Mark out to the Andorra trial I am transporting bikes to in April. An instant yes was her response. BINGO Mark you owe me a beer. Gear on bike started and another Jones walks up with a shocked look on his face. Blimey Trev, didn’t expect to see you mate says Russ. Another brew (cheers chaps) pre trial speech and we are off.

Section 1 Russ is observing so the craic will be fierce if there’s any cock ups. Sure enough a cheer goes up and loads of laughter when someone gets it wrong. Doesn’t matter to me much I only want to ride the bike around and make sure it’s ok so I can put up with any banter and don’t suffer from nerves at a trial. Simple enough to start with drop into a stream, out up the bank, drop back in around a tree and back out through the end cards. Clean every lap.

Section 2 Turned out to be my bogey section. Drop in, cross the stream up the bank, engine stops, no petrol, FIVE. It’s going to be one of those days I think. Smarts drags my bike up the bank out of the way (cheers mate) and I look to see what happened. No fuel coming through so I blow back up the pipe and it runs free. I presume it must be blocking the built in filter so will have to keep on clearing it. Section 2 took a dap of me every lap because my mind was on it stalling first time round.

Section 3 Drop into stream, ride over a couple of rocks to give a good low line onto the root step then wall ride around the bank to come out past the obs. Dropped 2 here when I tried to take it tighter on the 3rd lap, clean the other 3.

Section 4 Is this the Albert I read so much about. A bit of banter with him while I walk the section. Ask him to be gentle with me as I’m in mourning over the WC defeat and we’re both off on the right foot. Drop into stream under that dodgy branch that should of been cut out Russ around the dead tree, up a fairly flat section then sharp turn right up a steep bank. The little Beta catches me out as the front end comes up and I have to have a couple of dabs to pull it round through the end cards. One more dab on the next lap and we have it sussed, clean after that.

Section 5 Down in the woods. A few slippy roots to cross before we drop into the wider stream and ride across to a muddy lefthander, Back across the stream and up a big nasty root step, first 2 laps clean and a 2 lap dab when I found extra grip and came out with the front wheel pawing the air and just got it dropped down between the end cards. Last lap clean.

Section 6 Steady enough twisty start over roots and rocks, drop into and cross the stream and out up over rocks on the opposite bank. Clean every lap.

Section 7 By the bridge. Drop into and cross the stream out up tight right around a tree. back into the stream and cross on a diagonal and out over rocks. Clean every lap.

Section 8 Twisty ride up a muddy slope and the drop down through end cards. One of those sections where it would be easy to lose marks because you presume it is simple to do. Tried different gears the first 2 laps to see how the Beta would pull them. Stuck with second when I found there was ample power. Clean every lap.

Section 9 Favourite section. Drop down to stream to start and then ride up against the flow. Cleaned first lap and then dropped 2 next time round when I went in in 3rd gear, rookie mistake but that’s what happens to me when I don’t stop and check what gear I’m in. I just rode down the bank and straight in when Jan waved me on. Clean next lap and drop another when I slipped off line and bounced out over the rocks at the end hanging on determined not to paddle out.

Section 10 Simple enough twists and turns to start and then up over roots to happy smiling Mark giving me his best banter. Plenty of time for that in Andorra mate, we’ll have a blast. Clean every lap.

All in all I achieved what I wanted, apart from the fuel issue (which I later found to be a ‘no breather’ so it was vacuuming) making me wonder. The bike performed as it should. A great club trial at a great venue. I came away thinking I should of done better. I had myself down for 18 which I was hoping would not be to bad. Russ’s ‘check the scores on the doors’ comment had me searching the results minutes after I had got back in through the door (amazingly speedy) I was on 17 and had won the clubman twinshock. BLIMEY CHARLIE never expected that. It made the 200 mile 10 hour day round trip well worth the while. What with that, the great trial, amazing organisation, happy people, good banter and good food I will be back for the next one in December. I might step up to the inters route and make a fool of myself but as long as I’m riding my bike I’ll be happy among you. Thanks to all observers, organizers and caterers you did a great job. See you next time.

Paul Owen – Pre 65 Intermediate

Nant Ucha Aqueduct Classic Trials. A dry day but it was still wet from a few days rain. The venue is always set out good and the club always make the best use of it. Here are 3 of the 10 sections.

Section 1 was down the bottom of the soggy feild. We entered the stream and followed it up the slippy lose rocks and then a tight right turn up a 4 foot tree rooted greasy bank and a sharp turn left passed the observer and drop back down to the rocky stream with a muddy right turn to the out gate. I pick up a silly 5 on the 3rd lap as the front end was sliding top of the bank as I was turning left and I hit the coloured flag. I blame the observer who had to jump out the way and I believe he stood on his own coat and squashed his butties (hehe). The observer was my best mate and event organiser Russell Jones, and he gave me a 5 so I dont mind about his butties and coat (HAHA).

Section 7. You entered the wide section of the stream from the right and followed it up between the rocks to the left side and over a log as you turned slight right along the waters edge and then back across to a tricky rocky exit of the stream that seen me have a dab and up a steep muddy bank to the out gate.

Section 9. Was a down hill start and across the stream on green slippy rocks and around a tight right on the edge of the water as you turned and attacked the 2 steps of the rocky climb up the stream. It was a constant battle to keep the bike rolling over the rocks as every lap seen me take a different line as you headed to the out gate. This section took 3 dabs off me, 1 on lap 1 and 2 on lap 2.

The trial was very enjoyable and every section was challenging but ridable and even though I dropped 9 marks it was still enough to just take the win for the green route.

David Williams – Modern Mono Clubman

Hi all “bit about myself before I continue” my name is David Williams and I’ve been riding since a young age and since the “80s” I’ve not ridden since in over 15 years and did my first trials with my wing man John Warren at Pen y Graig at the July trials riding white route and we both only dropped 1 mark. Then I decided to go to yellow clubmans route for the October trial and I dropped 6 marks. So for November Nant Ucha I thought play it safe and do another on clubmans as I was “very tempted to ride intermediate” My score was 29! But I didn’t get any 5s it was mainly silly dabs…but a lot where justified due to the slippy sections So my three sections I would like to mention are…. Clubmans

Section 3 Down a average drop into the stream and a right turn through a narrow part and up over a medium but slippy tree root step, that instantly gave you not time to tackle a sharp right turn that have no grip at all!!! So had to take dabs and 3 it every lap apart from managing to get a 2 on final lap!! Really wouldn’t mind if this section can be added again or at least this annoying but challenging corner 

Section 4 This was a interesting one at the drop got a bit harder over time going into the stream and a few low branches…but then face two ways out of the stream, either a tight but short slippy climb, or to go up a higher bank faced with slippy slightly tree routed and rocky bank…. I chose the higher bank as it had a bit more grip and a extra second of momentum to get up. Scoring 4 in total as I didn’t get my line correct first 2 laps but happy to earn 2 cleans last 2 laps

Section 9 Arrrr a interesting one…as it was only for clubmans and above So anyone on white route didn’t see this one. So will explain best I can. Fairly difficult but ridable. Almost immediately into a stream with a choice of left side that was narrow “with the chance of dabbing” or up the middle over 2 rocks that I found fairly ridable if enough momentum was given at the bottom!! Then faced with some annoying rocks just before the final gate!! First lap I did what I thought the hard part was and took 2 dabs, 2nd and 3rd lap I cleaned it and final lap I took a STUPID dab all at the final part lol but a total of 3 marks in total My total score for the day was 29 not happy with my score! But I blaim myself taking too many unnecessary dabs that as we all know add up!!!! 

Above all a excellent event with Aqueduct trials club and as I always look forward to them!! See you all at the next one Thanks again to the organisers and observers!!

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 Intermediate

After the atrocious weather we had on the Saturday, Sunday made a refreshing change. Mild, dry and sunny at Nant Ucha Farm. My three stand out sections, Intermediate route, Triumph Twin.

Section 1, Russ. Drop into the stream, avoiding knocking your head on the tree. Ride upstream on deceptively slippy rocks, then keep tight to the left to give enough room for a sharp right over a six foot root infested bank. Left, drop off a ledge and tight right through the end cards. On lap one I gave the bank too much throttle, much to the amusement/terror of those nearby/in the way. This required some footwork to recover the plot before it all went South. Lap two and four clean. Lap three however started to go wrong when I didn’t concentrate on the deceptively slippy rocks, and ended up on the wrong line for the bank. Over compensating with the throttle (who, me?) resulted in me landing the front wheel outside the flags, and directly in front of Russ’s coat and buttie bag! That could have been a life ban!

Section 7, Christine, with help from Albert. Starting next to the bridge we rode into the stream, slalom right left around some rocks, then up a short step. Swing right and thread the wheels through or over a jumble of varied height rocks, then pick a line to ride out, over between or round some more rocks and up a bank. The bike handled these beautifully, until lap three when the pilot allowed a deflecting front wheel to point the bike sideways at the bottom of the bank. Attempting to recover by using more of the surrounding land than usually necessary, and more throttle, resulted in me parking on a tree stump somewhat short of the flags.

Section 9, Jan. Do you ever have one of those sections that you can’t seem to get right no matter what you do? This was one of them. Riding across the stream into a tight right turn, either “float” turn or run the front up the bank. This left very little room for the decision to ride round or over the rock you were immediately faced with, which in turn decided the line up the waterfall after it. Turn right after the huge boulder and ride over a succession of smaller rocks to the exit. I managed each element successfully, but not on the same lap. I had a 5 within inches of the end flags when I hit the wrong rock, and dropped the bike in the stream. I had a 5 when too much throttle (who, me?) after the first right put me into the deeper part of the stream, which I dropped the bike trying to recover from. I think the remaining scores were a 1 and a 3, if so, I’m really pleased with the 1!

I believe the setting out on Saturday was challenging, even more reason to thank everyone involved for giving up their time for our enjoyment. Thank you!

Rob Sloggett – Walking around taking photos of riders after helping mark out the day before

I wasn’t sure whether I was going to turn up on Sunday… Let me explain why quickly. After helping mark out on Saturday, Russ offered to let me drive the 4WD buggy from the forest up to the car park. Mark in the passenger seat and Russ in the flat bed, he passed the keys through to me. CLUNK… THUD… OOPS. Hang on that was not my fault… Russ you didnt tie it in a knot! Yep if you have not worked it out, the buggy has two keys. An igntion key AND an isolator key. Both needed to start it but when one of them has fallen under the plastic panelling and all you have is a 10mm spanner to strip the whole buggy you know you have a problem. As I said, I’m not taking the fall on this one…. but as I had to shoot off home for a preplanned appointment, I had to leave them there (I did feel bad!)

Anyway back to my part of the report. I have been helping to mark out on the Saturday for a few months, and asked Mark and Russ if I could focus on the white route. My reason for this is the Beginners for me represent the future of the sport and if we can maintain interest and develop sections that are not dangerous but each time allow the rider to experience at least one skill or obstacle type, they will continually develop and feel like they have had a good days competetive sport as well as going home happy and having learnt something. The difference between practicing and competition I have found is that when you practice you tend to ride within your comfort zone / skillset but in competition you have no choice but to ride whats between the flags.

Section 3, was definately the hardest white route section of the day. Whilst not dangerous, it offered an end set of flags that had the riders riding across a gradual right to left camber and then being presented with a moderately tight right hand 180 being approached up a bank. For me the natural line would have been to run out wide, hit the bank straight on using the full width of the over run and then complete the final bit of the turn on the flat. The photos, vidoes and scores indicate that this was probaly the hardest of the Begineers sections of the day with the range of scores from 7 to 14 and in most cases this single section was about 40% of the riders total marks for the day. The feedback on Facebook seems to indicate enjoyment?

The other section for me was Section 8. Sometimes you have to work with what you have for the White route and with the top part of the section being very steep and rooted banks, there is no way we would put the beginners up there as any deviation from the line would result in a tumble, so it was a case of using a flat rutted area and then a muddy expanse up hill to the end cards. The aim here was to give some tight turns over rutted ground to develop slow throttle control and then a short blast where more throttle would be needed to commit the run to the out markers. Once again, the range of scores was from 1 to 13 so it just goes to show how hard it is to gauge the section for the cross section of experience, skills and bike (bearing in mind it ranges from a high end Modern Mono, a 50cc Beta, bog standard TY 175’s and older heavy Triumph 500’s) .

I spent the Sunday having a relaxing day. I had been ill the week before and did not have the energy to ride so I grabbed my camera and spent the day taking some competition shots as they had a full coverage of observers. It was great to spend some time persuing another one of my hobbies that I have not had much chance to do and I hope people have enjoyed looking at the pictures on Facebook.

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

Another great trials. Sections were spot on. Very tricky and slippy but ridable. Was great to see Albert Higgins pay a visit to nant ucha – Paul “Moz” Owen

I loved the trial so much…. I fetched the bib home! Thanks to everyone involved with putting on a great trial, especially the person who organised the weather! – Kevin O’Toole

As always!! Another amazing turn out and familiar faces! Bit of a challenge due to the slippy sections but although I droped some extra marks I enjoyed the challenge!! Much appreciated to everyone!! – David Williams

The final event of 2019 returns to Plas Onn, always a great venue and a cracking place to wrap the year up. As always we have to pass our thanks over to the Kynastons for use of the land and all of the Aqueduct team, observers and Chris DB for the catering.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (38); Kev Ellis, BSA (59)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Paul Owen, BSA (9); David Beddoes, Francis Barnett (13); Kevin Walker, Triumph (18)

Pre 65 Clubman: Terry Lloyd, Triumph (26); Graham Miller, Triumph (33); Steve Jones, BSA (35)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Triumph (22); Chris Kenny, BSA (31)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (42)

Twinshock Intermediate: Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (5); Tim Cuffin, Yamaha (6); Vincent Brett, Honda (15)

Twinshock Clubman: Trevor Bennett, Beta (17); Allan Thomas, Fantic (40); Graham Pennington, Ossa (43)

Twinshock Beginner: William Leigh, Yamaha (19); Chris Jones, Yamaha (33)

AC Mono Expert: No finishers

AC Mono Intermediate: Gordon Wilson, Honda (8); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (12); Ian Emery, Gas Gas (14)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Honda (46)

AC Mono Beginner: No starters

Modern Mono Expert: Ian Smart, Montesa (28); Paul Edwards, Beta (55); Nigel Sproson, Monyesa (78)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Hayden Rainford, Montesa (17); David Ellis, Beta (20); Steve Walker, Sherco (23)

Modern Mono Clubman: Paul Haraker, Beta (5); Ad Gray, Gas Gas (6); Colin Steele, Beta (15)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews, Beta (27); Jeff Hughes, Beta (28); Sean Halstead, Gas Gas (32)

Observers:

Section 1 – Russ

Section 2 – Suzanne

Section 3 – Ange

Section 4 – Harry

Section 5 – Dave

Section 6 – Gordon

Section 7 – Chris

Section 8 – Izzy

Section 9 – Jan

Section 10 – Mark

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 20

Twinshock – 15

A/C Mono – 7

Modern Mono – 27

Total = 69

Classes

Expert – 7

Intermediate – 25

Clubman – 23

Beginner – 14

Bikes

Pre 65:

BSA – 11

Drayton Starmaker – 1

Francis Barnett – 2

Triumph – 6

Twinshock:

Beta – 1

Bultaco – 1

Fantic – 3

Honda – 3

Kawasaki – 1

Ossa – 1

Yamaha TY – 5

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 1

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 3

Honda – 2

Modern Mono:

Beta – 11

GasGas – 4

Montesa – 4

Oset – 1

Sherco – 4

TRS – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett

Luckily, the 2020 calendar does not have any Aqueduct Classics clashes with the Kia rounds, but this year we have had several and Octobers event was up against the Central Wales Auto event so a few of our riders traveled across to ride that. Back at Pen Y Graig quarry a slightly damp morning threatened the odd showers but the 59 riders who turned up were greeted with a welcoming signing on team, a bunch of happy observers and of course Chris’s butty van.

The 59 riders were broken down into 20 Pre 65’s, 14 Twinshocks, 5 AC Monos and 20 Modern Monos with 7 Experts, 23 Intermediates, 19 Clubman and 10 Novices making up the distribution.

Mark Newman – Pre 65 Inters

One if the best venues around ..it has everything and some nice climbs. Once again Russ and the team did a great job setting out some fantastic sections and a whole compliment of observers. I had 3 favorite sections.

Ffirstly number 2, in and up around a tree, the drop back down tight left between two more trees you need a good pull on the bars to avoid the roots, then off camber to another right and you had to run the front wheel around a tree stump and the back wheel would go over it nicely. Down a drop back up over a cluster of more roots …it flowed beautifully….

Section 4 between and round trees and you had to make a big figure 8 to line up for a tricky slippy sharp hill up tight between two trees and tight left as soon as you get to top again. Some roots to negotiate with a tug on the bars ….a left and a good climb up around a tree down, a drop and a loose climb up and out .. nice

Section 5, I think Russ Jones observing is always a challenge…! Nice flowing section up and round a tree and an off camber drop onto a group of stones navigation between two trees on the rocks. It was slippy and the James went a bit quicker than I was ready so I needed a dab …its the first time I’ve rode this bike for 18mths and it revs quicker than the big Norton I’ve been riding all year. Tight u turn and back over more rocks onto a big climb off camber around a tree and back down. A bit of a choice around or over the rock to get out and once again a nice flowing section.

All in all good flowing sections with sOmeting to catch you out if your not aT full concentration. Massive thanks, had a great day .

Geoff Jones – Section 1

With the abysmal weather that appears to be none stop at the moment , we set up base in the farmyard as per usual to await the arrival of our competitors for the day. The sections had been set a little bit more relaxed to accommodate the conditions down in the quarry. So the 60 riders all set off to tackle the trial in less than favorable conditions.

Section one, white route was set as an innocent looking ride through but the muddy greasy surface still took a few points from the overconfident.

Yellow route obviously a touch more difficult was set to climb a rocky bank and traverse the base of the quarry wall before sharply turning back down a rock strewn outcrop around a tree, the turn obviously took the unwary by surprise with riders being caught out by the greasy moss covered rocks which altered in condition due to the on:off showers.

Green route was a tighter longer variation of the Yellows with a large slippery rock situated at the start of the section before a steep rock strewn climb, I could overhear lots of discussion re the best way and angle of attack at the section start to ease the turn after the rock before the climb. The section ran level with the quarry wall along a rocky camber, which in itself proved quite difficult due to the greasy conditions, to continue and drop down the same rocky route as the Yellows to the end boards.

Reds again was a more severe version of the Greens with an awkward deviation down the rocks around a tree and back up which for a lot of riders necessitated a long safety dab before the rocky climb back….

Julian Price – Twinshock Expert

I will call this report Remember…..

I would start this report by mentioning the 56 marks I dropped during this trial, and the report is more of an explanation of how not to do it.

Lesson 1. Remember, why Preparation is important. For a reason I won’t mention (Ian), my Fantic buddy and I went off early instead of the usual wait for everyone else to go, in the vain hope that they will scrub the sections and make them easier. So, we arrive at our first section (section 3), quickly look at it, and go for it. Ian makes a tricky long section look easy, and cleans it. I stall on the bottom of the first descent because I have failed to set my tickover! Preparation.

Lesson 2. Remember to be Confident. When you come across a technical looking section, AND Mark Samuel is the observer, keep your confidence. He may have been watching Tony Bou videos the night before, but he may have also remembered that he may have to wipe up your tears when you can’t do his section. We know he will be there with sympathetic words (not), and be ready to assure you that Dougie Lampkin tried it earlier and said it was easy, and all this was to HELP you remain confident. I didn’t remain confident and suffered the consequences. Many dabs dropped.

Lesson 3. Remember when walking the sections. When walking the sections, try hard to forget about previous poor efforts, and remind yourself you can do this! Oh, and remember this is your opportunity to actually study the section and remember where you are going. As a Human you do have a memory superior to goldfish, although a fishes ability to swim would come in handy sometimes. So, remembering the way through is a huge advantage. They are already tight enough without making last minute detours.

Lesson 4. Remember The Power of Positivity. When the section setters devise these cunning routes for our pleasure, they have a pretty good idea what is, and what is not possible. I do not recall going to a trial in the last 7 years where a section was impossible to all the field, was set out. So, on the basis of this, the sections are always possible to someone, and if he can do it, so can you. When riding the red routes there is always requirement at some point, to have large testicles. Now, some of my fellow riders have this area covered, and even have whole testicles to spare! I am, sad to report that mine resemble dried up sultanas which is only an advantage when you land heavily on the tank. Here the power of Positivity can help you, and elevate your gonads to the size of “space hoppers”. It is amazing what a difference a can-do attitude can make. So, I must remember, If Dougie can do it, so can I!! (Yeh, whatever) So in summary. Make sure your preparation is done. Be confident. Walk the sections and commit it to memory and grow some testicles. It’s like rugby, if you go in half hearted, you’ll come off worse as the bruises from going over the handlebars twice will testify!! Feet up.

Ps. After the trial was over, Paul O and I were re doing some sections and Mark Sams I could do for a 1, and section 3 that had me over the bars twice I could clean. Frustration.

Paul Owen – Pre 65 Inters

The day started off nice but we knew the rain was coming but so conditions would definitely change for the worse. Luckily most of the trials was under the trees inside the old quarry.

Here is 3 of my best sections.

Section 4 was tight and twisty. You dropped down into a bomb hole and climbed up left around a tree and back down into a really tight right turn and up a slippy rooted incline and between 2 trees that the handle bars just fitted through. Once at the top it was a tight left over some rocks and across to the bank on the far left as you climbed it on loose quarry stone that had no grip. Then turn right and up a slippy muddy off camber climb to the exit gate.

Section 6 was a getting wetter and slippy as the day went on. You entered it on the flat and turned left up a bank and had a sharp right turn, top side of a tree that the roots were showing so got slippy if you didn’t carry enough speed. But not to fast, as you turned right back down the bank and straight into a left turn and getting on the power to send you back up the bank, but there were 2 solid rocks side by side that you had to hit straight on and turn immediately right back down the bank. I always felt like I wasn’t in control on that corner until the bike slowed to the exit gate.

Section 7 was a basic path into a big bomb hole but I had to use 2nd gear as you headed to the left bank to get the speed for the very step climb up a greasy wet bank which you had to turn sharp left and select 1st gear to drop back down it to the exit gate. It wasn’t much of a section, but I’ve done a lot of improvements to the BSA bantam and got it revving more now so can try 2nd on bigger banks.

To be honest all the sections were challenging and enjoyable. Big thanks to aqueduct classic trials for another great event

Rob Sloggett – Section 9

Having assisted with the marking out the previous day and doing the white route, I was quite looking forward to grabbing a board and observing what the other guys had cooked up for the other routes. I had a section in a part of the quarry we had not used for a while. Basically it was graduated uphill channel with trees, some rock steps and a few banks, finishing with a large rock cluster near the end cards approached (depending on your route) by a number of snaking loose material banks.

Whilst the white route was fairly straight forward and the gradual bank only took a few dabs off the odd rider, the main challenge I had set which was an exit between two trees just over a handlebar width across, then a immediate left turn to the end cards did not really set anyone a challenge.

The yellow route had a great exit and after the straight forward front and mid section which took them around a rock step, they then had a left / right / left snaking climb finally running around the outside of the final rock cluster for the end cards. The early bank surprisingly took a number of dabs from riders but the uphill snake was certainly a good challenge needing good throttle control and line management to stay off the loose stuff.

Green (Orange) route incorporated in the middle section a really tasty rock step. Whilst it had a natural V in the middle and the line I was expecting riders to take was right in the nook (as it set them up for the main banked climb), most riders actually ran more right (i.e. hitting the flat edge of the right hand V rock) which forced a small turn on the bank. So strange to see as it was the consistent line! Quite a few fives, lots of threes but also regular clean rides.

The Experts had a complex section starting with a long climb up a bank, drop  (4 ft.) down the other side then immediately run parallel and turn back up  the 4ft wall to then drop back down a similar length to the run in. The mid section had the same step as the Inters (Green) but then the snaking climb had more tighter forced turns flagged in, taking them through a rock gully to the end cards. Some great rides with a number of riders coming out with clean sheets.

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 Inters

After a few modifications, the Triumph’s first test was to be in Aqueduct’s trial at Pen Y Graig. A damp day, with promise of more rain meant it was going to be less than pleasant for the observers to be stood out watching us enjoy ourselves, so I’ll thank them first! Thank you!

Section 4. Gordon. Taking a wide line to the left allowed you plenty of room to turn right in the bottom of a gully before a short climb between two trees. Left and let the front wheel roll over a couple of rocks, then right over a fallen log, and finally a steep off camber climb to the exit. Other than a stray dab on the exit, no problem for the first three laps. On lap 4 light rain had made the first climb slick. I watched Paul Moz Owen struggle for a 3, but then Mark Newman flew up it, so I thought I would be ok. Wrong. I didn’t get enough momentum at the bottom and lost traction, which resulted in both bike and I reversing rapidly for a 5.

Section 8. Mark. The rockery. Not helped by watching one of the other riders fall heavily, I was a little nervous of this section. The first pile of rock looked likely to catch my clutch case if I went too far left, and the right hand side didn’t look appealing. A sharp right over a rock, followed by some loose rock, then right around a tree before choosing which rock to ride over. As it was the bike coped far better than the rider, but the rider didn’t have enough faith and put his feet down. A lot. 3,0,3,2.

Section 9. Rob. Starting in the bottom of a gully and swinging left up the bank, then right and over a rock step between trees. An off camber downhill left with exposed roots to another, bigger rock step, then a loose climb with an overhanging branch to distract you before the top. Slalom round the trees to the exit. This was deceptive, the bits that looked easy were difficult, and vica versa. I managed to escape with only 2 marks lost.

Yet another excellent trial from the Aqueduct team, thanks again for all your hard work. As for me, “Must try harder”. Just like my school reports used to say!

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

Another amazing trial! John Warren and myself are already looking forward to the next one! Will try and get some of the guys we practice with to come also! Glad to see loads of familiar faces ? Massive thanks to all the observers and to the organisers! Plus Chris De Burger for his “yum yum” De munchies – David Williams

Another great trial today. Thank you to everyone who observed and set up sections. Thank you to Alan Dyson and Chris De Burger for riding round and helping start my bike – Talei Mallard

Thanks for the organisers, observers and riders patience while the grandson bashed round his first full adult trial with you all, good easy going trial, well set out for the recent weather – Karl Kavanagh

The venue for the next event is Nant Ucha, always good for a chilly November, but as always we have to close this report with a big thank-you to all of the observers, sections setter uppers, admin staff and Chris DB for the catering, plus the landower for the use of this great venue.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Chris Gascoigne, Francis Barnett (11); Tiny Gush, DOT (12); Alan Miles, Drayton Villiers (25)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Tim Lewis, BSA (3); Paul Owen, BSA (5); Roly Jones, Ariel (7)

Pre 65 Clubman: Jeremy Sutton, BSA (6); Steve Jones, BSA (6); Tim Godsmark, BSA (7)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Triumph (3); Alan Dyson, BSA (18); Chris Kenny, BSA (20)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (17); Steve Thompson, Yamaha (52); Julian Price, Fantic (56)

Twinshock Intermediate: Stephen Knight, Fantic (5); Jed Downes, Honda (14); Craig Howard, Fantic (15)

Twinshock Clubman: Graham Pennington, Ossa (18); Allan Thomas, Fantic (23); Darren Riley, Bultaco (28)

Twinshock Beginner: Chris Jones, Yamaha (11); Jeff Hughes, Montesa (20)

AC Mono Expert: None

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (4); Martin Powell, Honda (13); Gordon Wilson, Honda (14)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Honda (14)

AC Mono Beginner: None

Modern Mono Expert: None

Modern Mono Intermediate: Mark Diggie, Sherco (9); Andrew Dean, Beta (9); Neil Lyth, TRS (20), Steve Walker, Sherco (20)

Modern Mono Clubman: David Williams, Montesa (6); Spence Bradley, Gas Gas (12); Elwtn Beedles, Sherco (14)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews, Beta (6); Talei Mallard, Beta (32); Jonathon Hughes, Sherco (34)

Observers:

Section 1 – Geoff

Section 2 – Izzy

Section 3 – Dave

Section 4 – Gordon

Section 5 – Russ

Section 6 – Suzanne

Section 7 – Mark

Section 8 – Chris

Section 9 – Rob

Section 10 – Jan

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 20

Twinshock – 14

A/C Mono – 5

Modern Mono – 20

Total = 59

Classes

Expert – 7

Intermediate – 23

Clubman – 19

Beginner – 10

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 8

Dot -1

Drayton Villiers – 1

Francis Barnett – 1

James – 1

Triumph – 7

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 1

Fantic – 5

Honda – 2

Montesa – 1

Ossa – 1

Yamaha TY – 2

Aircooled Mono:

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 3

Modern Mono:

Beta – 9

GasGas – 4

Montesa – 2

Sherco – 4

TRS – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Mark Gaskell Suzanne Bowkett and Kevin Williams

The August break had seen 7 weeks off since the last competition and what a way to start back with a visit to a great new venue and great weather!

Nant Y Ffrith Farm boasts some great terrain and this event really just scratched the surface and hopefully we will get the opportunity to use it again. Whenever new venue become available, the ongoing goodwill of the landowner is inevitably infliuenced by the respect the riders play to both the land and the way we showcase the good nature of our sport and I think Sunday ticked all of these boxes.

So what of the numbers? Well 69 riders signed on with 20 Pre 65’s, 21 Twinshocks, 11 AC Monos and 17 modern monos. The classes were split with 12 Experts (of which 6 were in the Twinshock class), 29 Intermediates, 14 Clubman and 14 Beginners (of which 7 were in the Pre 65 class). Single enteries were seen in the Pre 65 Experts, AC Mono Clubman and AC Mono Beginners classes

Mark Gaskell – Inters Route, Pre 65

A great new venue and gorgeous weather, what more could you want for on a Sunday?

My score wasn’t helped by a silly five when a dead branch flicked my chain off in section 7, and an even sillier one in section 10 when I went the wrong way! Excuses out of the way, difficult to narrow them down, but here are my three standout sections of the day:

Section 3, from the gate, a gentle turn up and round a tree stump which needed gentle throttle to avoid overshooting the next element, a full lock left hand turn. Off full lock and straight onto full throttle to climb a ten foot bank with a tree root becoming more exposed with each lap. Traverse the top of the bank before plunging off to the ends cards. Short and steep.

Section 4, you know you are in for a treat when the start of the section is a long way down hill! Sure enough it started with a short climb over a earth bank, which dropped onto a path and left. Slalom over some tree roots then run wide left on the bank to make a hard right onto a steep and loose 20 foot climb, followed by a left and a gentle climb up through the trees. Plenty of climbing! The last element was a short descent to a right turn and the end. Lovely!

Section 6 was my nemesis. Straight, over a step, then up a long steep bank, veering right over a rockery, then finishing with a full lock left round a tree and full lock right over a root. I didn’t get this section right all day, two 2’s and two 3’s .

Kevin Williams – Inters Route, Pre 65

Another brilliant trial put on by Aqueduct and there new venue did not disappoint and a fantastic day was had by all.

My 3 favourite sections were:

Section 4, this had to be my favourite section. It started with a good climb up a dry dusty bank then it dropped into a gully then over some roots then you had to swing it over to the left slightly onto the bank then immediately turning sharp right up a decent climb then it carried on up to the left then finally dropping down between some trees back into the gully and through the out gate.

Section 5 started with a good blast at a steep bank with exposed slippery roots then turning to the right behind a tree and up a second bank then dropping immediately into a rocky channel weaving through a pair of trees and out over a slippery log which ran on a diagonal.

Section 8 started with a little climb up onto a boulder then turning to the left around a tree then back to the right through another two trees and up a steep solid rock climb then it led across to the left were you had to get over a rock step then it dropped around a couple of trees and out.

Rob Sloggett – Inters Route, Twin shock

After the DNF on the Bultaco at the last event, I had not had time to look at the Butaco (one of the downsides of working aways from home), but it did give me a great reason to use the Majesty purchased a few months ago. Having riden a Whitehawk 200 in the 80’s I loved the Yams but never actually owned a Majesty so when one came up locally it seems silly not to buy it! My plan for this event was to get a feel for the bike on what was a lot of banked climbs and being the shorter wheelbased Mini with a 200 engine I was advised that it could be light on the front end. The gearing was also very different to the Bultaco so I wanted to get a good feel for the limits and torque from the bottom end that 2nd gear would give me and a few sections allowed me to really get to know the bike.

Section 4 was the first one to set me a challenge. With two good climbs (one into the section and one within the section) it felt like a 2nd gear run but the climb into the section felt just a bit wrong for second so first it was. The entry and fiddly bit in the gully offered little complevity but one into the bed of the gully, half way up we hd a 90 deg right turn straight up a long pulling bank with roots. To get a good run at it you had to really snake up the left hand back then sweep down to make the 90 deg turn and snp the throttle to make the climb. Weight well forward and keeping smooth was key but the lenght of the climb really pushed 1st gear to the limit. A 5 on the first lap due to being well off line was followed by a pair of twos but it felt cleanable and on the last lap it all come together. If not under competition pressure I would love to go back and try the same combination in second. I suspect it would pick up clean and not bog down and probably be a lot less buzzy at the top end of the rev range.

Section 5 was probably one of my favourites of the day as the opening bank combination was definately in my weak spot. A cross camber climb with two sets of roots offered two lines to aid you on the right hand turn at the top of the bank. You could either come off the power early and run the front wheel below the second set of roots but then the rear wheel ran low to the tree that sat in the middle of the bank or you could fire much higher up the bank, take the front wheel about the second root line and allow the rear wheel to run a line between the two root formations. I went for the latter and once again first gear was my selection (my thought process being second was more likely to fire the front wheel into the air). The observer after the event certainly commented about the high rev range I was pulling but a think the 4 cleans (albeit with a single dab lost of lap 3 I think at a later point of the section) made me content with the outcome.

Section 6 was definately a second gear blast up a long climb. The first 20 foot greeted you with a small step then another 10 seconds climb gradually getting steeper with a rock and root cluster and it bent right gave you something to think about. You then had to fire across a short root crop to then be faced with a tight 180 deg left around a tree to the out cards. The turn picked up single dabs for me and I struggled to get a feel for the turning geometry and the climb caught additional signle of pairs od dabs leaving me to drop 10 on this section (25% of my overal score). A great section though….

Section 8 was up there with Sectoin 4 as one of my top sections and one that had a second to first shift down as the challenge switched from climbs to tight steps. This one was great to understanding the control and speed of second as the start had a brief upward climb but with an left right combination of turns at low speed then into a bomb hole with a right turn to line up to a steep bank which you had to sweep left straght after the crest. A swift change down to first to line you up to a root / rock step which needed the front wheel to be lifted with enough speed to carry you over the lip then a simple run down to the end flags.

Two silly fives contributed to my score but a great deal of learning on the new bike and certainly one I am going to enjoy riding whilst the Bultaco gets checked over and the frame and a few other bits powdercoated, the hubs relined and a couple of other things to sort. The inter route is definately a challenge and pushes me outside of my comfort zone but thats what this sport is about I suppose….

Suzanne Bowkett – Observer Section 4

Absolutely loved the new venue!! Russ and I were on section 4. White route separate from the rest so a bit hectic at the beginning but loved observing it!!

Bit of a tough one but lots of happy smiling faces think judging by the comments everyone enjoyed it.

As always, we received great feedback on social media and some of the comments are below:

Big thanks to the organisers and observers ! Very good trial at a new venue, sections well set out , challenging but that’s trials ! Great atmosphere and chat with the riders, brilliant day really enjoyed it – Paul Corfield

Was a fantastic day today Geoff, big thanks to you and your team and what a lovely place – Jeff Hughes

Thanks to the whole team for organising and to those that helped him on his way round Jack really enjoyed his first trial – Ian Moody

The usual close by thanking everyone involved and I look forward to seeing you all at the next round.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, BSA (35)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Simon Thornley, BSA (0); Dave Lovell, Triumph (5); Graham Greaves, Triumph (20

Pre 65 Clubman: Rob Godwin, Francis Barnett (2); Tim Godsmark, BSA (6); Andy Steele, BSA (21)

Pre 65 Beginner: Jeremy Sutton, BSA (0); Peter Cockins, BSA (3); Chris Kenny, BSA (4)

Twinshock Expert: Chris Gasgoine, Montesa (29); Dave Wood, Ossa (33); Jim Williams, SWM (46)

Twinshock Intermediate: Dave Pengilley, Kawasai (5); Vincent Brett, Honda (15); Stephen Knight, Yamaha (17)

Twinshock Clubman: Steve Blackburn, Montesa (9); Mike Kelly, Fantic (14); Darren Riley, Bultaco (16)

Twinshock Beginner: No finishers (

AC Mono Expert: Matt Spink, Honda (23); Jerry Hawker, Honda (75); Paul Young, Gas Gas (107)

AC Mono Intermediate: Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (8); Gordon Wilson, Honda (10); Ian Emery, Yamaha (15)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Honda (31)

AC Mono Beginner: Jack Moody, Scorpa (90)

Modern Mono Expert: Nigel Sproson, Montesa (74); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (80)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Paul Hempkins, Gas Gas (18); Jason Davies, Gas Gas (25); David Molyneaux, Montesa (28)

Modern Mono Clubman: Neil Lyth (1); Jamie Jones, Beta (1); Perry Tattam, Beta (15)

Modern Mono Beginners: Jeff Hughes, Beta (0); Johnathon Hughes, Sherco (24); Talei Mallard, Beta (31)

Observers:

Section 1 – Dave Williams

Section 2 – Geoff Jones

Section 3 – John Sowden

Section 4 – Russ and Suzanne

Section 5 – Chris De Burger

Section 6 – Mark Samuel

Section 7 – Izzy Cartwright

Section 8 – Angela Godsmark

Section 9 – Chrissie Samuel

Section 10 – Jan Jones

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 20

Twinshock – 21

A/C Mono – 11

Modern Mono – 17

Total = 69

Classes

Expert – 12

Intermediate – 29

Clubman – 14

Beginner – 14

Bikes

Pre 65:

BSA – 10

Francis Barnett – 1

Norton – 1

Triumph – 8

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 1

Fantic – 4

Honda – 3

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 2

Montesa – 3

Ossa – 1

SWM – 4

Yamaha TY – 2

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 1

GasGas – 2

Honda – 4

Montesa – 1

Scorpa – 1

Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono:

Beta – 7

GasGas – 2

Montesa – 2

Sherco – 4

Unlisted – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Robin Ayres, Paul Corfield, Ian Emery, Tarquin Millard and Julian Price

Another clash with a Kia round saw slightly lower numbers turn out this month but the 65 riders on a nice warm day enjoyed 10 sections of absolute fun.

The 21 Pre 65’s were joined by 17 Twin shocks, 6 Air Cooled Monos and 21 Modern Monos. The class mix saw 7 Expert rub bars with 26 Inters, 19 Clubman and 13 Beginners.

Robin Ayres – Beginner Route, Twin shock

Pen Y Craig was the first event I took part in with Aqueduct Classics, the club and venues have become the benchmark I judge other trials by, so a tough act to follow.

Sundays trial was great, the way the sections are set out for novices were spot on, a few easy ones and a few to test you a bit, it demonstrated that us wobblers are given the same consideration as seasoned riders.

Section 3 (Geoff’s I believe) was tricky, with a few rocks to navigate along a gully, then a sharp uphill exit was a favorite, as was 7, did not want to bin it on this one, with rocks a plenty to weave through, I managed to only drop 7.

Section 9 and 10 were a different sort of challenge, with loose soil and turns that are gradually educating me regarding throttle and brake control, with the emphasis on gradual!

With all the sections closely linked, laps 2, 3 and 4 were covered swiftly and despite an entry that would be the envy of most modern trials very little waiting took place at any of them.

Without a doubt I really do want to move up a class and feel that the clubs sections are graduated so steadily that the leap would not be a dangerous one, albeit I may drop a few marks here and there!! Big thanks to everyone as usual, roll on the next trial!

If Carlsberg did trials….. they would probably be Aqueduct Classic Trials

Rob Sloggett – Inters Route, Twin shock

So a slightly different start to my report (mainly as I only have one lap to write about as I ended up as a DNF but more on that later)… Each year I set out a number of personal challenges, not quite New Years Resolutions, more things I want to do that year and on 2019’s list was to offer a hand in marking out the sections. When we practice, we take a set of flag with us and having introduced my kids and a few others to the sport I wanted to offer up a pair of hands to mark out the Beginners route as this where my comfort zone was. 

Russ and Mark kindly let me help out and trusted me with the White and Yellow routes and I must say I felt under pressure not to mark it out to easy but also make sure the riders had a safe day but one that present sufficient challenges across the spectrum of riders. My approach for the white route was to find routes and turns that developed throttle and brake control (and gave a mixed terrain to ride over) whilst for the Clubman I wanted to make sure their was at least one obstacle or terrain contour to challenge them and on a couple of sections allow them to experience something closer to the green route.

I hope I got this balance right and the riders in these classes enjoyed the day. Looking at the scores, Section 10 seemed to take the most marks on the Clubman route and if you think that the climb was last used on the Inter route the last few times (we did cut the roots out for this weekend to make the crest more manageable) I hope whilst a little daunting, everyone enjoyed it. For the beginners, section 9 seemed to take a higher number of marks but at the end of the day, their was only way out and hopefully the straight run into the bank allowed you to have a safe attempt.

So what of my lap? Well I can promise everyone that I did not ride any of the green routes the day before! My first lap was great fun with only 2 single dabs dropped and I felt like I was aiming for a good day. Their were a number of section I saw Russ mark out the day before which I was sure were going to be mark takers for me (Russ’s section being a prime one) but the bike felt good and it was moving well between my legs, I was happier attacking where I needed to and being controlled in the slow stuff… then Section 10….

Up the bank, clean !!!! sure I was going to foot it at the top, drop down, slow left turn, wind the throttle on for a short climb and the bike bogged down. Not enough power to get me up the bank, clutch in, recover the engine, try to keep on line but no chance and exit the section for a 5. It felt like fuel starvation but with something else mixed in

Section 1 and 2 rode OK then as I got to Section 3, the over run on the engine on deceleration instead of being clean indicated heavy engine braking more akin to a 4 stroke and it not ticking over unless on the choke. A funny noise from the flywheel side and a hot engine case signaled time to call it a day. Bike on the trailer before serious damage was done and early bath.

But what was my favorite section of the day? Once again, one the day before I felt would take a odd 5 or maybe 2’s from me. Mark was the observer and the section started with a reasonably tight right turn over a set of rocks with a short step up to hit them. Across a jagged rock bed, you then exiting with a left downhill camber of loose soil. You then turned right through a pair of trees, a left, right, left and then drop down. You were then presented with tight right 270 degree turn hitting an immediate climb up but across a steep bank.

I had seen Russ ride it for the Expert route the day before and saw his technique on the final bank. The top part of the section rode brilliantly and I was clean at the turn. First gear (Russ used second the day before but the bank was not scrubbed), lined it up perfect, a committed squirt of the throttle and the bike sailed up and across (but I think a stable dab may have been taken).

Paul Corfield – Beginners Route, Pre 65

What a great venue for me to enter my first trial. After signing on I warmed the bike up, rode to the riders briefing, met so many friendly people who all have one thing in common … trials bikes, got talking to a fellow beginner who introduced me to Chris De Burger who was willing to ride with us and give us for some much need advise.

So my first trial was about to begin…..

Section 1, a little rocky to start, then up through some trees onto a left, then on up to the end. A good start for me to get confidence up.

Section 2 was one on my favorites, climb up to a left round a tree then up over fallen tree to a small climb then down into a dip and up and out to end another clean !

Section’s 3 and 4 were nice and flowing, getting out of section 4 was good fun as well.

Section 5 another favorite on mine, good drop down into a turn between some trees then flowing through over some loose stones slightly covered with moss. Another fun time getting up and out onto next group of sections.

Section 6,7 &8 were through nice and stead fairly flat but tight in places so needed some steady riding and balance to get through.

Section 9 started dropping into a dip then up to right turn and down onto loose stone with a slight camber falling to left and then up to gate out. I cleaned this first lap then next 2 laps I came off twice on the loose stone with shouts from Observer … you’re going to fast … slow down ! Lesson learnt as I have the bruises to prove it .

Section 10, another good one for me. Soft and loose in places as you climbed up, turn left and down over some exposed roots which looked like steps as you walked it but looked so different when you ride it on a bike. Good one that.

I was so happy that I did the full 4 laps and also happy how my tigercub ran and celebrated by treating myself to a very good cheeseburger, provided by a very good catering van. The observers were really encouraging , which gave me confidence as entered each section.

Big thanks to Chris for the advise as we rode round and to all members of the club, you’ve got a fantastic atmosphere and I cant wait till the next .

Ian Emery – Inters Route, AC Mono

The Club’s third visit of the year to Pen Y Graig but my first as I’d missed the others due to Kia clashes. So good to be back though with a set of 10 really good sections which flowed nicely but needed full concentration with some tight flag marking. Here’s my feedback of three of them. Section 4 was a tight one! A narrow entrance on a slight off-camber to then turn right and right again, over exposed roots, threading carefully between two sets of narrow trees. As the second right tightened there was an exposed log which threatened to push the front out for the next set of flags. Cost me a 1 on the first lap. Thereafter was a swoop up the bank and down past some large rocks and a sneaky tight right which caught a few out before approaching the ends. Section 6 was my nemesis. Started with a traverse over a jumble of loose rocks with a gentle left followed by a drop into more loose rocks before a narrow left followed immediately by a right to the ends. The issue was in the middle of this left turn was a big pointy rock stuck just where you didn’t want it to be. I watched my riding buddies Paul and Jim clean it several times riding around the outside of the rock with ease. Could I match them? No! Tried the inside line on lap 1, needed a 1, lap 2 rode around the outside, needed a 2 ( which annoyingly doubled my total score at that point), lap 3 rode straight over the rock for a 1, and lap 4 went round the outside again, needing a 3 as the rock knocked the Yam out of gear. Section 9 was my favorite of the day. Slight descent into a dip with a full lock right turn onto another jumble of loose rocks to climb up and over and down through more rocks on the other side. A cross camber right/left descent need in bit of height on the left bank to get a tight right in between two trees. Threading between several more trees lead to a full lock U-turn right, with the ground falling away to the left so control of the front was key. With zero run up there followed a steep climb at an angle across the face of the gradient so lots of footrest weighting required to guarantee enough grip to reach the top. The Yam squirted up on half throttle each time giving me 4 cleans which I was very happy with. I really enjoyed the day and thanks go as usual to the observers, section setters and admin team for all their hard work. t

Tarquin Millard – Beginners Route, Pre 65

My second trial so i asked my family to come and watch, I said it would be fun, so they drove over to Pen y Graig for a day out. I sent them off through the wood, to meet me at the bottom of the quarry. It was much easier getting down on my bike, than it was on foot for them, as it was a very step walk and very wet and muddy.

I started my first section, with my family watching, thinking to myself, I’ve got this, the section doesn’t look to bad! As I started off I slipped off the pegs and ended upside down with my bike on top of me but as the day went on I started to get my confidence back. All the sections were set out well but they became a bit of a blur.

I think it was section 8 and 9 that really threw me off, as there was no run up to them, you only had about a 4 foot start before you were in the section but they were good.

Section 10 was a nice one but very loose as you came to the first hill, but if you got up, it became easy. I think it was section 6 or 7 that had a flat start and a good run up, then you had to go around a tree and over some small rocks and you were out of the section, it was a really enjoyable one.

The section Russ was on, was a rocky U shape, a really nice section, but at the end there was a big rock you had to come around. Because I was focusing on the rock I kept dabbing. At one point a rock got dragged up between my tyre and mudguard, it stopped me dead. Russ had to help me pull it out so I could carry on the trial.

All in all had a great trial, was bruised and battered and felt like I had had a kicking the next day, but thoroughly enjoyed it.

BIG THANKS to the aqueduct team for their hard work.

Julian Price – Expert Route, Twinshock

Hi all, bit of a hectic start to the trial day helping Dave Pengillly fix his brake plate to the fork on his Goloner Kawasaki. Good spot for him before he set off and we managed to repair it with a couple of Jubilee clips a bit of wire and sheer invention!

So, the trial… One of my favourite venues with the added bonus that I can see it from my kitchen window. It’s worth saying the section setters at this club almost always get it spot on. Despite no running water at the venue the setters always make the most of what they have. I had the company of fellow Fantic rider Ian Jones and Ady Green on Russ’ (chief setter) Francis Barnett, to increase the pleasure of all the ‘humming and hahhing’ we do trying to guess how we can get round these sections.

If you did no more than look at the results of the red riders you will see that we all dropped marks but there was nothing ridiculous or dangerous in my opinion. I’ll mention a couple of my favourites.

I enjoyed the rocks on Section 4. It was a tight right just before the rocks which made no room to get it wrong, and you could say the only section with consequences if you spilled it on the rocks. Pleased to get that one done first lap.

Section 6 was very tight at one point so much so, I knocked my knuckles on a tree every lap, as you had to be inch perfect to get around the corner.

 Section 7 was Russells, loose rocks that remained unpredictable, possibly due to a lower expert entry this week. Not enough riders through to kick out the loose ones. The really difficult bit was a loose cambered turn with a shallow root. It required care, a deft touch and the ability not to react when the rear wheel slipped out as it passed the root. Repeating “don’t dab” over and over as I rode up this obstacle failed to save me, and it was the only section I didn’t clean at least once. It took a further 4 go’s at the end of the trial to finally master it!

Lastly Mark Sams Section 9 was a real test. We had a tricky wall from a tight turn, tight corners and a tight camber on the loose stuff. I think all the red route riders lost some marks here, myself included. Another section that showed marks could be taken from riders without subjecting them to too many risks.

So, there is a quick summary of what was a hugely enjoyable day. I have got used to the club having a great friendly atmosphere, being well organized, having capable marshalls on every section and section setters who really know the way to put a trial on and this report has given me the chance to put it in writing. Thanks to all involved.

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As always, we received great feedback on social media and some of the comments are below:

First class event, well done boys and girls and I got to do my centipede impressions on one or two sections – Mike Hughes

Thank you everyone for an amazing day! My first trial in 15 years! Looking forward to the next one!! Cheers everyone – David Williams

Thanks for all your hard work to all involved in the setting up and running of todays wonderful trial, had a really good day – Jeff Hughes

Reading the beginners route reports, I am glad that those riders found my attempt as selecting the section lines enjoyable and I have got to say a big thank you to Russ for allowing me to lend a hand. As you know the club is ran by a small number of people for our benefit and their are a number of ways that as riders we can help out. Marking out the sections is one but either observering on the odd round or providing an observer is probsbly one of the most important aspect as without those our sport just not exist. If you know someone who would like to get involved as an observer please let Russ and the team know.

The usual close by thanking everyone involved and I look forward to seeing you all at the next round.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Ady Green, Francis Barnett (77); Bill Woodcock, BSA (83)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Paul Owen, BSA (4); Kev Williams, Triumph (10); Dave Lovell. Triumph (14)

Pre 65 Clubman: Peter Elvidge, BSA (4); Stephen Leyshon, BSA (6); Steve Jones, BSA (6)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O;Toole, Matchless (11); Graham Turner, Triumph (14); Paul Corfield, Triumph (25)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (16); Julian Price, Fantic (20); Grahan White, Honda (26)

Twinshock Intermediate: Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (1); Jim Droughton, Majesty (16); Alex Barrie, Honda (16)

Twinshock Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha (16); Neil Parker, Honda (20); Allan Thomas, Fantic (30)

Twinshock Beginner: Rob Ayres, Majesty (19); Chris Jones, Yamaha (20)

AC Mono Expert: no riders

AC Mono Intermediate: Ian Emery, Yamaha (8); Gordon Wilson, Honda (15); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (15)

AC Mono Clubman: no riders

AC Mono Beginner: no riders

Modern Mono Expert: Peter Beottcher (10)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Andrew Dean, Beta (6); Steve Walker, Sherco (13); Richard Corbett, Beta (18)

Modern Mono Clubman: David Molyneaux, Montesa (9); Elwyn Beddles, Sherco (10); Ken Williams, Honda (10)

Modern Mono Beginners: John Roberts, Beta (1); David Williams, Montesa (1); Jeff Hughes, Beta (8)

Observers:

Section 1 – Izzy

Section 2 – Jan

Section 3 – Gordon

Section 4 – Mark

Section 5 – Geoff

Section 6 – Suzanne

Section 7 – Russ

Section 8 – Christine

Section 9 – Mark

Section 10 – Harry

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 21

Twinshock – 17

A/C Mono – 6

Modern Mono – 21

Total = 65

Classes

Expert – 7

Intermediate – 26

Clubman – 19

Beginner – 13

Bikes

Pre 65:

BSA – 8

Drayton Starmaker – 1

Francis Barnett – 1

James – 1

Matchless – 1

Triumph – 9

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 2

Fantic – 3

Honda – 5

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 2

Montesa – 2

Yamaha TY – 2

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 1

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 1

Montesa – 1

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 7

GasGas – 4

Honda – 2

Montesa – 3

Sherco – 1

Other – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Paul Jones, Geoff Jones, Tarquin Millard and Steve Blaxall

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As anticipated, the lack of clashes with the local Kia rounds saw the number of entries swell back to the usual numbers and Sundays event actually saw 90 riders sign on at the very popular Nant Ucha Farm venue. The recent weather had caused the stream to swell in some places so the club took the safe and logical decision to use the stream where appropriate but also capitalise on the range of banks and stand alone clusters of obstacles to set out 10 fantastic sections for the four routes.

Pre 65’s saw 27’s bikes enter and Twinshocks were close by with 25 bikes in the class. AC Monos also saw a good entry with 14 bikes and the modern monos had a great turnout with 24 bikes. It was also great to see 14 riders contesting the beginners route and we hope some of the new riders have enjoyed the sections, club spirit and we look forward to seeing more of you. 22 riders picked up clubman route and 42 riders signed on for the inters route. That left 12 riders to contest the Expert route who were set up with a great hill climb and drop down in one of the latter sections of the day.

The event opened with a message from Dave Kynaston (part of the family who own the venue) to report of the loss of a local rider during a practice session at another local popular practice venue. Dave and the family have continually developed the Nant Ucha venue, keeping practice costs low for us riders. In order to provide even better facilities the family have decided to invest in a defibrillator and the land fees for todays event will go towards its purchase, along side a sponsored 1 mile swim being undertaken by his daughter…Opportunities to sponsor still exist and would be welcomed. 

Paul Jones – Pre 65 (Beginner)

During a recent trip to the Outer Hebrides a certain Wigan pie muncher cajoled me into having another go at trials after over 4 years out of the sport. Borrowed my dads Triumph 400 and the big day came, entered and signed on only to realise that I was first there and got the Number ‘1’ bib, Jeez i thought I’m going to get some stick over this.

I had decided to ride the white route and see how I got on. Whilst eating the obligatory bacon butty supplied by the Bambi De Burger  a few bets were being made as they realised I hadn’t even started the Triumph let alone ride it before. So the Wigan massive were getting quietly confident about their bets.

Following the riders briefing I took a deep breathe and to my relief it fired into life and away I went to section 1. Parked the bike then realised oh sh*te its only my dads section which upon walking it made me think how the hell do I get the triumph round the right tight turn upon getting through the start gate, so I decided to go for a long dab and managed to get out of the section within a shaking of the observers head on just a one. Nice little section that made you think.

Onto to section 2, on an off camber but nothing too tight and flowed nicely around the trees, during the event we had a rain shower which made it slippy and think about what you were doing.

Section 3 was a nice little section in through the start gate and right turn between some rocks then a left between more rocks onto a bank between two trees dropping back to the left for the end cards.

Section 4, when I first saw this, in through the start gate, left turn drop down a steep bank into the brook then straight across exiting with a good climb out with a 90 degree right at the top onto an off camber which got slippy during the trial. When I came to grief and ended up having a lie down next to the bike I thought its ok my dad cant see me from where he is.

Section 5 was simple, made you think again though. In through the start gate with a log across your path where you had to turn right and climb the bank. The Triumph did its job however I did have a couple of dabs due to being unsettled by the log.

Section 6 Into the section and over an old stone wall onto a wet slippy off camber, then a right turn off a step and exiting into the brook. Nice little section, nothing too technical but still a joy to ride.

Section 7 In through the start gate along the side of the stream between rocks with a right turn at the end up a bank. It didn’t look too challenging but you couldn’t be complacent either as a dab could be easily lost.

Section 8, a bit longer this section. In through the start cards and then a slight climb dropping you onto an off camber with a right turn and a log to your left to make you climb to the top of the bank and turn left and continue the climb over roots to the end cards. This was more challenging that you thought as the day went on and the section got greasy following the rain.

 Section 9. didnt look a lot for the white route. Down bank in through the start cards followed by a right turn on old sediment brought down by the recent flood water. You had to be careful not to let the front end wash out. We then went up the bank and out through the end cards.

Section 10 last but not least, a nice little section in through the start cards coming in from a steep uphill track, up a step and along behind a tree then a 90 degree turn dropping you off the bank and out through the end cards, again didn’t look much but still took a few dabs off me during the day.

As the day went on my confidence grew and I remembered why I loved this sport so much and my grin just bigger, I managed to finish the trial and immediately thought right when is the next one. Only disappointed I didn’t bet on myself finishing the trial and taking some money off the pie muncher, ah well always another day.

Rob Sloggett – Twinshock (Intermediate)

So after my first lap score disaster (and last lap wheel falling out) at the last event, I tried to find time to do two things before this event . Firstly spend some time prepping and checking the bike and secondly trying to get out for a practice.

Well the first (1) section came, I walked it and got on the bike and confidently entered the section in front of a group of onlookers. The first challenge was a nasty right hand turn between trees with a stubby route pointing up just at the wrong place. I saw several riders takes double dabs and the odd three at this point and was happy with a wasted single dab. I felt in a good place to the short bank, left turn, 180 degree right into a bomb hole and then a tight left up over the roots to the end cards. Hang on rewind……….back to the 180 deg turn. Yep trying for the single dab only I lost concentration and allowed the front wheel to wash out and then tuck under. A really embarrassing 5 at a point on a flat turn… Was this going to be my day (again). Well more on that a bit later on. But what of section 1 for the other three laps? I knew this was cleanable, if I could get the first obstacle in hand the rest of the section just needed better concentration. Lap 2, a double dab on the first turn and root plus another dab elsewhere, Lap 3, clean all the way to the last bit, overcooked the power lifting the wheel over the roots and had to have a big dab to pull it around to the exit flags. Lap 4 all to play for. Full concentration and a clean in the bank. Yippee!

The rest of the first lap was much better and I felt that all sections were cleanable and should be taking singles at best. I felt I was on for a good day.

Section 9 was another great section. In the stream it looked simple. Drop down the bank into the stream, ride for a bit picking a good line the full width of the river bed then a tight 90 deg right across the stream controlled by a set of well placed flags, across the flat bank and a sharp left turn uphill to the out flags. This was a great learning section as at the drop in you could not see the exit. All you had was a point of reference of two large rocks which gave you reference point to turn in at the exit stage. Cleanable but ready to take the odd dab if you caught a rogue rock on the turn out. A total of 5 marks lost, I recall at least one clean and a single dab so it must have been a pair of 2’s.

How do I pick my last favorite section to write about? Section 3, a variation on a spot of the land we practice regularly or Section 5 with another lesson in learning landmarks to pick the best line? For me its either Section 7 or 8 which both offered something different. The exit of 7 which was in the stream had a shallow right turn into a blind spot cluster of rocks. The layout only came into view once you were committed to a line. My first two attempts I think were clean (with big smiles), lap 3 caused me to go off line and really clack my boot on a rock and took a single dab. I rewalked the section on the last lap and saw what I thought was a better line. Mistake! a silly 3 took my section total to 4 marks. Section 8 was another great stretch section on the inter route. A straightforward entry with a couple of root strewn banks was OK if you keep your concentration high but after that a right hand turn into a steep climb with an elevated tree stump at the crest of the climb. You had to be smooth with the power as the turn transitioned into the straight line for the climb. Three cleans and then the last lap. The bank had deteriorated with the showers and I struggled to find grip. Saved for a 3 but it was still cleanable and I kicked myself for not finishing this one on a clean sheet!

The time spent checking the bike over and having a practice certainly felt like it improved my ride and I was quite happy how close i was within my group. I have got to say it was brilliant sections, everything rideable and some great technical aspects for an Inter improver who is normally in the bottom 1/3rd but aspiring to move up the table.

Geoff Jones – Observer (Section 1)

Well what a turnout for today’s trial, 90+ riders all poured into to the confines of Nant Ucha wood. We had lost the use of a good group of sections due to young cattle being in the locality and the previous heavy rain causing flooding in the brook, but with skillful planing of the course, setters Mark and Russ we were able to realize the full potential of the wooded section.

I observed on section one, which in itself looked fairly straight forward, but that did not prove to be the case. The start for the whites/yellows and green routes consisted of a tight turn around a slim tree sapling and over the stump of a previously felled small tree, followed by a drop down to a flat slippery corner. This proved to be the sticking point for a majority of riders, with the small tree stump either taking a purposeful one, an untidy three or the dreaded five, with one or two having a classic handlebar excursion !!!!

Whites then followed a more simple line to the end gate, so it was a case of a bit a of skill development and having to think on a bit of technicality leading to an easier end.

Yellows was set just about right with their follow through into a small bomb hole to exit up over several tree roots into the end gate. Again a good test of their development and skill.

Reds and greens more or less took the same path with an exit out of the bomb hole and a tight turn back to exit via different tree roots set at an angle. The initial lap was fairly good but with a couple of heavy rain showers the sections were quite dramatically changed, to test another level of skills to be experienced by the riders.

Tarquin Millard – Twinshock (Beginner)

My day at my first trial…..

The day was a great eye opener for me and lots of fun. It started with me wandering around chatting to a lot of people to get an idea of what was to come, everyone was so helpful and kind and the organisers were very professional as they were struggling with the parking situation as we had lots of rain.

I started off riding with Chris De burger , Paul Jones and Alan Dyson on the white route, as the day went on Chirs had to go so Paul kindly offered to ride with me and show me the ropes. He was very helpful and we had loads of banter that helped with the nerves.

I liked section 2, it was nice and flowing and 3 also, but I struggled on 10 as you started up hill and it was right next to a fence that messed with my head as there was not much room.

All in all, I had a brilliant day and just watching and seeing all the lovely bike’s was good.

Steve Blaxall – AC Mono (Intermediate)

This was my first time using the 305 fantic in a trial. A trial which almost ended before it had really begun. I had completed the first two sections then on to section 3, parked the bike, walked the section, came back to the bike, would it start? No – not a chance. A big thanks to Chris Mathews for offering the use of his bike, so i could go back to the van for a spark plug and a plug spanner. Yes that’s right no spark plug spanner in the van!. I pick an adjustable in the vain hope it may work, back at the bike, I thank Chris for his kind gesture and set about changing the plug. No chance with the adjustable but in trying i notice the plug is actually loose and can be undone by hand. I put the new plug in-hand tight she fires up 4th kick. Something’s not right I think, but its running, lets see how it goes.

Here are the 3 sections that i was having the most difficulty with :-

Section1 – A very compact, twisty & technical section. I struggled with the first right turn over/between the roots. There was an obvious gap for your front wheel but this made the rear ride up on a small stump making me take a dab or 2 !. The step up out of the bomb hole near the end of the section immediately after a left turn also posed problems.

Section 3 – Simple enough or so I thought. Cleaned it first lap, then second lap, up the bank, turn 180, back down and across to a left turn which at the end was a cluster of rocks. Really not sure – perhaps i was off line, but those rocks had me on my backside! 5!. This unnerved me and I paddled through next lap, I cleaned the last lap though. The other part of the section which got my attention was the last turn around the back of the tree before descending – I am still not fully confident with those off camber turns.

Section 9- Down the bank, turn right and up the stream – then the hard bit, turning right almost 180 degrees climbing out the stream followed by an uphill left to the exit. For three laps I was always taking a dab or 2 on the right turn out the stream. On the last lap I made the final right turn and still feet up. Taking a wide line to make the left easier I got too close to edge of the streams bank, hit a loose rock and had to take a supporting dab with my right foot, problem is fresh air is not very good at supporting you, and into the stream I went! Despite my mishaps, I managed 3 fives!

I had yet another great day. Many thanks to the Organisers, observers and landowners for making it all happen.

As always, we received great feedback on social media and some of the comments are below:

Pleased to take the win on the AJS yesterday with 5 marks lost. A great trial thanks to everyone involved. I even beat the old man by 2 so he wont be too happy about that, especially on fathers day! – Richard Beddoes

Really good trial again Russ and Mark well done. Thank to everybody including the Marshall. My wife did quite a good job as well  – Mark Lucas

Great trial again with a great bunch of organisers and riders. This old wobbler really appreciates it – Elwyn Beedles

Loved seeing my old friends and some good action along with a nice bacon butty and coffee keep enjoying the fun all – David Calvery

The next event sees us return to Pen Y Graig Quarry on the 14th July. As always we have to close by thanking everyone who made this event possible and wishing Daves daughter all the best with her sponsored 1 mile swim to raise funds for the Defib machine.

Top Places

Pre 65 Expert: Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (26); Kev Ellis, Trifield (27); Ady Green, Francis Barnett (84)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Paul Owen, BSA (6); Dave Lovell, Triumph (10); Gerry Minshall. James (12)

Pre 65 Clubman: Peter Cockins, BSA (37); Stephen Leyshon, BSA (39); Graham Miller, Triumph (41)

Pre 65 Beginner: Richard Beddoes, AJS (6); Dave Beddoes, OK Supreme (7); Chris Atherton, BSA (21)

Twinshock Expert: Chris Garlich (6); Ian Jones, Fantic (21); Andrew Williams, Honda (30)

Twinshock Intermediate: David Pengilley, Kawasaki (4); David Matthews, Bultaco (10); Josh Matthews, Fantic (10)

Twinshock Clubman: Graham Pennington; Ossa (33); Neil Parker, Honda (36); Alan Thomas, Fantic (46)

Twinshock Beginner: Chris Jones, Yamaha (32); Rob Ayres, Majesty (45); Darren Riley, Bultaco (45)

AC Mono Expert: Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (33); Jim Williams, Honda (38); Paul Young, Gas Gas (64)

AC Mono Intermediate: Martin Powell, Honda (14); Gordon Wilson, Honda (18); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (24)

AC Mono Clubman: Lee Churton, Gas Gas (28); Ken Williams, Honda (30); Andy Steele, Yamaha (43)

AC Mono Beginner: No enteries

Modern Mono Expert: Neil Sproson, Montesa (35); Paul Edwards, Beta (36)

Modern Mono Intermediate: Mark Diggle, Sherco (5); Steve Walker, Sherco (11); David Ellis, Beta (12)

Modern Mono Clubman: Paul Grocott, Montesa (18); Macauley Quiney, Beta (24); Elwyn Beedles, Sherco (26)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews, Beta (11); Nigel Rigg, Honda TRS (12)(

Observers

Section 1 – Geoff

Section 2 – Suzanne

Section 3 – Dave

Section 4 – Mark

Section 5 – Russ

Section 6 – Julia

Section 7 – Chris

Section 8 – Jan

Section 9 – Harry

Section 10 – Izzy

Bike Stats

Pre 65 – 27

Twinshock – 25

A/C Mono – 14

Modern Mono – 24

Total = 90

Classes

Expert – 12

Intermediate – 42

Clubman – 22

Beginner – 14

Bikes

Pre 65:

AJS – 1

BSA – 10

Drayton – 1

Francis Barnett – 2

James – 2

OK Supreme – 1

Trifield – 1

Triumph – 9

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 5

Fantic – 8

Honda – 5

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 2

Ossa – 1

Montesa – 2

Yamaha TY – 1

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 2

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 4

Honda – 4

Scorpa – 1

Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono:

Beta – 12

GasGas – 1

Honda – 1

Montesa – 4

Sherco – 6

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Rob Ayres, Mark Gaskell, Talei Mallard, Ian Jones and Paul Owen

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A bright Sunday morning welcomed 67 riders back to Carrog Isa, a venue which had not seen a visit from the club for a few years. Whilst the club had a clash with another local Kia round which saw a number of riders take part, we still saw a great turnout of 29 Pre 65, 12 Twinshocks, 11 AC Monos and 15 Modern Monos.

8 Experts enjoyed a challenging set of sections, with Russ Jones getting the opportunity to get back on the bike. Almost half of the riders (32) took to a very challenging but enjoyable Intermediate route with the Clubman and Beginner routes taking 16 and 11 riders each.

Rob Ayres – Twinshock (Beginners)

After a health related lay off, it was great to get out and Sunday’s venue did not disappoint. Even though I am very much a White route rider, the feeling of achievement cleaning a few sections still does it for me.

After an off on section 6 of the first lap, the rest of the day was a bit painful, but achieved! And finished all 40.

Section 9 & 10 were my favourites, 9 with the little stream on the entry and exit and 10 with some good old mud! Most of the sections put something in there that stretched you a bit, whilst not being dangerous for someone who still has loads to learn. Doing the white route also allowed me some time to watch competent riders doing what I keep saying in my head that I should do!

This was my third Aqueduct event and like I said in the beginning, it did not disappoint, a great day. It is without doubt, the friendliest club I have had the opportunity to ride with and I certainly do not aim to miss any more events on this years calender!

Talei Mallard – Modern Mono (Beginners)

Section 1: I thought this section was a good starter (beginners) section because I had to think about the best line, and I had to ride over loose ground which I haven’t done before. I only lost 1 mark over the four laps.

Section 10: This was difficult because the mud just before the hill was sloppy and wet, so you got stuck at the bottom. If you got past that bit it was easy enough to ride out. I lost 16 marks overall, and snapped the back mudguard !

Paul Owen – Pre 65 (Intermediate)

Aqueduct classic returned to Carrog Isa. A great venue on the green hills above the Carrog valley.

There was a great turnout and a few riders still chatting about their Scotland tour.

The sections were spot on, I was riding the green route and looking at the sections they looked like yellow route but actually rode like red route! There was nothing dangerous there and with plenty of slippy banks and rocky streams it made for a great day. Here is 3 of my favourite sections.

Section 2: With a muddy left hand turn up the bank and a sharp right turn along a slippy off camber and then between 2 trees and down right to a short right-hand banking with a drop off into a sharp left to the out gate.

Section 3: A slight uphill climb into the start gate and a 180 left turn with a long right handed climb that turned into a tight zig zag up a good steep climb and a slippy descent between the trees to a trick left with a old tree stump that could easily catch you out. This was followed by a drop off into a left muddy turn and out gate.

Section 8: This was a drop down a banking into the rocky stream and a steep climb over the slippy rocks to a green mossy slab were we had to turn left but still keep traction and momentum as you then turned sharp right up some slippy root to the out gate.

I’d like to thanks the organisers and observers for a great trial and Mark Gaskell and Mark Newman for pushing me all the way.

Oh …. and my toolbar on the bike was in demand with some poor lad who’s front wheel spindle had fallen out……

Rob Sloggett – Twinshock (Intermediate)

I was so looking forward to getting back to Carrog Isa. It always conjours up memories of when I rode the Beamish and could not get grip at the start of a section and accidently sprayed the rider behind me with mud…. or the brillaint section just up in the top right hand corner of the parking field which always brings something new each time…. And I was not to be diasappoints as that Section (3) resulted in 15 marks being taken off me, but more on that in a minute.

They say bad news come in threes. A few weeks ago we lost our beloved pet dog of 13 years, a few days after we lost the Suzuki Jimny we had for 15 years to a major MOT failure and on Sunday 19th May I lost what few trials skills I possesed!

Yep, first section (2). Did not walk it correctly and got a five, next section (3) the climb was unscrubbed and I failed to get grip and got a 5, the rest of the first lap I think tallyed 6 x 5, 2 x 3, a 2 and a clean. I actually was ready to drop down to yellow to try and regroup my self esteem or put the bike on the trailer, take it home, put in on ebay and take up basket weaving. Don’t get me wrong, the sections were not massively difficult, walking the sections my head was saying in most cases they were single dabs at the odd place and maybe the odd two but when I got into the entry gates it just all went wrong.

I took the decision to regroup in my head, reset the aim of the day to complete each section by the end  with a 2 or less and rewalk the sections on the second lap and if I ran out of time as a DNF so be it. At the end of the day I wanted to enjoy myself and have fun (as thats what the event and this club is about) and I genuinly could not get my head around the first lap disaster.

Well I’m please to say the day got better until the last lap (but more on that at the end) and a couple of sections stood out for me. Section 8 (Gordons) section was the first one which lifted my spirits. A long gradual shallow drop on grass into the section led to a wide left hand turn which then presented you with a 50 ft run up a narrow stream bed with a few challenges on the way to keep you thinking. You then hit a flat rock slab about the size of a car bonnet with an uphill, left camber profile. Once over that you had an immediate (and I mean immediate) left turn to be presented with a reasonably steep dry mud climbing bank with roots in the middle and a left/right switch combination. Immediatly on walking the section I was planning deliberate dabs to make the turn than a couple of footings to be be expected up the bank and after the run of five’s up to this point I was very much about getting through as opposed to getting clean! I think the first lap I had a single footing on the bank, second lap another single and then two cleans with the tricky bit (in my mind) of the rock slab being cleaned each time.

Section 3 was my worse scoring section with I think two x 5, a 2 and a 3 and I really could not get what was a truely great section. As Paul had described previously, a wide entry with a 180 switch back led to a great climb between trees in a left / right / left snake pattern. Loose soil to push the front wheel out, just enought dryness in the ground to break traction and enought turns to mean body postion and movement of the bike was key. I really could not get this. I know what I needed to do but my execution was a disaster. Their is a similar section we mark out at Swans Farm when we practice and it gets me every time so definately a skill and technique I need to focus on.

So what of the last lap? Well a 5 on Section 3 should have alerted me to a problem on the bike as I actually managed the climb but the front end did not feel right in hindsite and caused me an error later on. I rode to Section 4 which had an up bank entry, turn left, tight right turn between two trees (whith a root to the left) and then drop down etc etc. The previous lap I dropped a couple of dabs at the root stage as I went to far left and had my head dialed in (for once) for the final attempt. I knew the line I wanted and felt confident. As I approached the right turn with the root the front out pushed out wide for no logical reason and then the back wheel lodged in the root and spun out. The root was shallow and a bit of footing should have got the bike through but it would just not budge. It was almost like the front brake was jammed on…. hang on, it was almost like the front brake was jammed on!

Yep disaster, what had actually happened was that the front spindle nut had come loose, the spindle had forced itself 1/3 of the way out causing the front wheel  to twist down between the fork legs jamming the front brake tie bar under the fork leg and as the brake plate had rotated, the front brake was now solid on.

So a few problems…. how to get out of the section with the front brake wedged on, how to get the bike from section 4 to the car to fix it and how to finish the trial which I was really enjoying and riding better by this stage. Luckily Messers Owen, Jones and Ellis were on hand and with a few tools at the section side we were able to release the brake cable, reposition the wheel, drive the spindle throught and tighten up the pinch bolts. Luckily the main nut had contained itself in the fork recess so Kev pinched this up with a pair on long nose pliers and I was able to finish the last 6 sections to end what was a bit of a nightmare day but still really enjoyable.

In the good old days in the 80’s, youth club events had scrutineering and it forced you to make sure your bikes were ready. Working away from home I know my bike prep has slipped between events and this time I played the price and embarresment! I definately need to pull together a basic check list of minimum checks and get back into a discipline of commiting a few hours between events to check things over better.

Ive got to close by thanking Paul, Russ and Kev again for helping me out and also the last 6 observers for waiting around as I think I was probably the last rider through!

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 (Intermediate)

Perfect weather conditions for Carrog Isa on Sunday thankfully, as it can be a tad slippery in the wet! Drayton Triumph 350 twin, on the green, or intermediate route.

Section 2 caused me more grief than it should, the first right turn at the top of the bank getting the better of me for a loss of 6 marks. Only managed to clean it once. One of those annoying bits that despite knowing the right way, you always go wrong!

Section 5 was a slalom across the main track, with four tight turns up on the banks to negotiate and a root/rock step combination to catch an unwary wheel. The bike handled this perfectly, another rider asking me if it had a hinge in the middle. Sadly the pilot didn’t handle it quite as well and nearly went the wrong way on lap 2, requiring a couple of hefty dabs to get the plot back on course.

Section 6, slight downhill to a left up a bank, then a downhill right that got slippier as the day wore on. Onto a lower path, then tight right and immediately up a short steep bank between two trees. How fast you went up the bank dictated how much time you had to make a left over some loose slate, then a right out of the section. Watching a couple of riders fail the climb made me a little nervous, but the Triumph dispatched it with ease. I lost one mark on the last lap for not concentrating on the loose slate.

Section 10. My only 5 of the day. Drop down into a stream, turn right and up and over a jumble of rocks and roots. Left and over a large tree root before turning right and around aforementioned tree, then a short blast through a boggy hollow to the end. I overshot the left and ran wide outside the flags on lap one, and lost three subsequent marks, only managing to clean it on the last lap.

Ian Jones – Twinshock (Expert)

A dry overcast morning greeted nearly 70 competitors, showing how strong classic trials is in North Wales now, to Aqueduct classics Round four of the ten round series at Carrog Isa roughly halfway between Llangollen and Corwen beside the historic A5 with fantastic views of the Dee valley and its famous steam train running throughout the day.

After a short briefing from head honcho Russ it was off to the first of ten sections on this mountain side course, I’ve nicknamed this my joker card event as having ridden around here many a time as a hare and hounds course I sort of knew what type of sections they would be.

So on Saturday I went out for an hour on the Fantic near my home to practice on similar terrain, off cambers tight turns and climbs to get the feel of things which hopefully would benefit me in the trial.

After studying the first section for ages I noticed it was getting easier as every passing bike was taking the moss off the rocks and the loose soil on the tricky climb, so I was pleased with a clean start.

Section 2, one of my favourites,proper old school section, after watching Kev Ellis and Russ blasting their triumph twins up the steep climb someone thought that they’d heard thunder!! This was either a clean or a five section you’d be lucky to get away with a dab on this one.

Section 4 was different as this one got tricker on the last 2 laps , lost 2 dabs on this one (but didn’t loose a wheel!) sorry Rob….

Section 6 seemed to cause a few issues on the Expert route with a few 5s, by the time I got there, a nice path had been made, steady throttle in bottom gear was the order, section 7 was a cracker very easy to get it wrong up the narrow slippery slate bed, had three cleans and a clumsy 3 on this one.

My other favourite was section 9, another 2nd gear one up a stream bed then a blast up a jumble of rocks then a sharp left to the exit cards, managed 4 cleans, happy days!

All in all a fantastic days trialling with well thought out sections, all cleanable but ready to take a mark or two if you let your concentration lapse. Many thanks to the regular and new observers, Chris de Burger catering, landowners and organisers and the super quick results team.

A thoroughly enjoyable day, all credit to the Aqueduct team for putting on yet another excellent trial. Many thanks to all concerned.

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

Hi just like to say thank you to everyone for making me very welcome on my first trial shame my gear selector broke. Look forward to having a go at your next trial – Tarquin Millard

I must say that the yellow route rider that shone today over the tricky boulders was, Ken “Bou “ Williams, he floated over as if they wernt there – Geoff Jones

Big thanks to all the Aqueduct team for another great trial today-really enjoyed the sections and the workout in between!!! – Ken Williams

Great trial today, thanks to all organisers, observers and caterers – Chris Forshaw

The venue for the next event has been confirmed as Nant Ucha on Sunday 16th June.

As always we have to close this report with a big thank-you to all of the observers, sections setter upers, admin staff and Chris DB for the catering, plus the landower for the use of this great venue.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Kev Ellis, Trifield (14); Russ Jones, Triumph (17); Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (17)

Pre 65 Intermediate: David Beddoes, Francis Barnett (12); Paul Owen, BSA (13); Dave Lovell, Triumph (18)

Pre 65 Clubman: Roger Smith, BSA (14); Chris Forshaw, BSA (18); Graham Miller, Triumph (29)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Ariel (31); Harry Barefield, BSA (46)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (7); Paul Smart, Fantic (14); Julian Price, Fantic (22)

Twinshock Intermediate: Dave Pengilley, Kawasaki (4); Adrian Kent, Bultaco (8); Alex Barrie, Honda (27)

Twinshock Clubman: John Sowden, Bultaco (52)

Twinshock Beginner: Chris Jnes, Yamaha (31); Rob Ayres, Majesty (65)

AC Mono Expert: No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Gordon Wilson, Honda (21); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (24); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (29)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Homda (20); Colin Ashton (33); Andy Steele, Yamaha (40)

AC Mono Beginner: No enteries

Modern Mono Expert: No enteries

Modern Mono Intermediate: Peter Boettcher, Gas Gas (12); Spence Bradley, Gas Gas (30); Steve Walker, Sherco (31)

Modern Mono Clubman: Elwyn Beedles, Sherco (18); Jim Marsden, Gas Gas (46); Carl Jackson, Beta (80)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews, Beta (28); Nigel Rigg, Honda (37); Talei Mallard, Beta (47)

Observers:

Section 1 – Geoff

Section 2 – Fiona

Section 3 – Izzy

Section 4 – Dave

Section 5 – Jan

Section 6 – Harry

Section 7 – Suzanne

Section 8 – Gordon

Section 9 – Mark

Section 10 – Chris

Bikes Stats:

Pre 65 – 29

Twinshock – 12

A/C Mono – 11

Modern Mono – 15

Total = 67

Classes

Expert – 8

Intermediate – 32

Clubman – 16

Beginner – 11

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 11

Dot – 1

Francis Barnett – 4

Norton – 1

Saracen – 1

Trifield – 1

Triumph – 9

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 3

Fantic – 4

Honda – 1

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 1

Montesa – 1

Yamaha TY – 2

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 2

Beta – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 3

Montesa – 1

Scorpa – 2

Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono:

Beta – 6

GasGas – 3

Honda – 1

Montesa – 1

Sherco – 4

Event Report by Rob Sloggett and Mark Newman

With such a busy classic calendar in the North Wales area it was always going to be inevitable that clashes with the Kia rounds were going to take place and with Congleton being local to us a drift to the national championship was probable so it was great to still see almost 70 riders turn up for a warm Sunday at Pen Y Graig. Having visited the venue the previous month,the clerk of the course and his team had promised some new terrain within this great venue and the riders were not left disappointed!

The 68 riders were broken down into 27 Pre 65’s, 12 Twinshocks, 9 AC Monos and 20 Modern Monos with 12 Experts, 30 Intermediates, 18 Clubman and 8 Novices making up the distribution.

Mark Newman – Pre 65 (Intermediate)

Riding the green intermediate route on a 350 Norton pre65, my report on Section 1

It turned out to be my favourite one of the day as I watch a couple go through and thought to myself its getting through the tight turn after the hill thats causing a problem. So I set off up a short but steep off camber climb across and behind a group of trees then a sharp drop back onto the main path, up the opposite bank and around trees and rocks where its a bit loose under the wheels but all is well.

Then facing the steep but short bank with the tight turn to the right between said trees, I took a wider left hand approach taking it easy on the big Norton knowing to much speed and I will not make the turn. Perfect line eased through the tree, another full lock turn had me back down the bank before I knew it, just over a cluster of rocks and out the end cards for the perfect ride

 Big grin, all sections cleanable and did clean them all just not on all 4 laps ! …great trial. Huge thanks to all.

Rob Sloggett – Twinshock (Intermediate)

I woke up in the right frame of mind… right 6 months off of inters, 4 months with the bike being rebuilt and the last two months getting back into it on the clubman route. It felt the right time. Then I walked section 1! I have always said trials is 60% skill and technique and 40% mental attitude and seeing the 10 ft cross camber climb with minimal lateral run up filled me with doubt (and almost made me walk the clubman route). But it was time to bite the bullet again, get back on the horse, take control in the driving seat… yep all that motivational stuff you hear…. Being one of the first riders through the line was unscrubbed and a traverse entry was likely to slide out so I postioned the bike diagonal in the entry gates (but straight on to the bank), put the rear wheel as close to the wall with a slight downward run in and selected first gear. I was genuinely expecting the rear wheel to spin so took maximum opportunity on the compacted track entry line and lo and behold the Butaco dug in, found grip up the bank and flew up with ease. The rest of the section whilst complex comprised of up and down bank routes with turns around trees. Happy with the outcome and a clean on lap 1. By lap 2 the line had been scrubbed and it was obvious that a new entry line of traversing the track and turning in and up the bank was ridable and in the spirit of learning I took this line lap 2. Another clean and a tick in the box. Two further cleans gave me a clean sheet.

Not the same on Section 3! If you look at the results, this section took 9 occurrences of 15+ marks in the Inter classes including 4 maximums which included mine. Fair play to Mark Gaskell, the only Inter to clean it I think. You truly were a brave man to throw that Triumph Twin up there! So what was the challenge? Well the twist for the Inters was simple. Run into the section with a right hand drop down a bank, then a left hand climb across two small bumps to be presented about 15 foot in front of you with a tall off camber bank with roots across it. OK on its own probably BUT at the foot 7 ft back from the bank between two flags were two lines. To the right a rock slab about 2 ft across but sloping down right to left. To the left a cluster of rocks with a tight line through it but causing you to approach the bank off line to the left. Neither were good but you had to pick one, commit 110%. hope you got to the top and if you did not, have a plan to lay the bike over on the slope face or let it come down on its own accord. My first attempt blew my confidence, I took the right hand slab, got 75% up the bank, got caught on the roots and a scrappy exit saw the bike come down hard. The next 3 attempts took the left hand line but after the first off, my brain could not commit and all three attempts were lack luster the truth be told. I really wanted to get the bike up there but in my head I knew I was not going to get up there and the way down was not going to be pretty. My 3rd lap was probably my best effort with 80% of the slope being achieved but I had to dismount and push the bike across the camber to stop it dropping down the bank and this really sapped my strength.

The effort on Section 3 lap 3 really sapped my upper body strenght and the next few sections saw a couple of silly 3’s and two 5’s on sections I had cleaned previously, purely due to a lack of upper body / arm strenght. This was a big learning to my cimb backup into Inters and something I need to work on.

So what were the other highlights. Whilst I dropped a silly 5 on Russ’s Section 7 on lap 1 down to stalling it on a downhill element, the next 3 laps saw cleans and the refining of my rock gully technique the last few competitions I think showed as I felt more confident picking the line as opposed to letting the bike take me where it wanted . The same was found of Section 1 and 8 with a great set of rock gullies and specific lines being needed and the bike felt planted and I certainly felt more in control of my destiny.

All in all a great event. The Inter route was challenging and on a couple of occasions I knew the obstacle was a stretch. It showed me my weaknesses both in technique and mental capacity but also gave me a warm and fuzzy feeling where I could see the improvement in my technique so hats off to Russ and the guys for a great days competition…

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

First trial in 15 year and to say I sooooo enjoyed myself! Youve got a great little club Russ and the team. So friedly and welcoming to a first timer, sections perfect and organisation spot on. Cant wait for your next one. Really appreciate your hard work #itjustdoesnthappenonitsown – Elwyn Beddoes

 Great trial today. I think we got more than our moneys worth. Thanks to all the team. Will sleep well tonight. Thanks Again – Garry Shaw

Another cracking event. Thanks to all. Some challenging sections on the yellow route today. Persuaded my “young un” Charlie to step up to yellow today which he found hard going but managed to do them all. Thank you to all observers who helped him on the way – Neil Parker

What a great trail, sections were spot on in the clubman route with no long queues! I felt it my duty to provided a bit of entertainment for the observer at one section! Thanks to the team for stepping up to observe where needed. Much appreciated – Tim Godsmark

The venue for the next event is just being confirmed with the land over but as always we have to close this report with a big thank-you to all of the observers, sections setter upers admin staff and Chris DB for the catering, plus the landower for the use of this great venue.

Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (17); Pete Morris, Triumph (31); Kev Ellis, Triumph (32)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Roly Jones, Ariel (16); Mark Gaskell, Triumph (17), Mark Newman, Dave Lovell, Phil Alderman all tied on (17)

Pre 65 Clubman: Graham Miller, Triumph (3); Terry Lloyd, Triumph (4); Keith Baddeley, James (16)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Matchless (3); Alan Dyson, BSA (25)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (24); Julian Price, Fantic (30); Steve Thompson, Honda (45)

Twinshock Intermediate: Alex Barrie, Honda (33); Rob Sloggett, Bultaco (64)

Twinshock Clubman: Chris Foreshaw, Fantic (7); Neil Parker, Honda (23); Matt Hopkins, Yamaha (33)

Twinshock Beginner:Chris Jones, Yamaha (7); Darren Riley, Bultaco (21)

AC Mono Expert: No Enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Gordon Wilson, Honda (23); Martin Powell, Honda (25); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (30)

AC Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Honda (34)

AC Mono Beginner: No Enteries

Modern Mono Expert: Alan Mills, Beta (39); Declan Marsden, GasGas (82)

Modern Mono Intermediate: David Ellis, Beta (9); Ronald Corbett, Beta (15); Steve Walker, Sherco (16)

Modern Mono Clubman: Elwyn Beedles, Sherco (15); Perry Tattum, Beta (27); Jim Marsden, GasGas (43)

Modern Mono Beginners: Nigel Rigg, Honda TRS (6); Guy Cowper, Sherco (12); Chris Matthews, Beta (13)

Observers:

Section 1 – Izzy

Section 2 – Annette

Section 3 – Gordon

Section 4 – Jan

Section 5 – Geoff

Section 6 – Mark

Section 7 – Russ

Section 8 – Dave

Section 9 – Christine

Section 10 – Suzanne

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 27

Twinshock – 12

A/C Mono – 9

Modern Mono – 20

Total = 68

Classes

Expert – 12

Intermediate – 30

Clubman – 18

Beginner – 8

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 10

Dot – 1

Francis Barnett – 3

James – 1

Matchless – 1

Norton – 1

Triumph – 9

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 2

Fantic – 4

Honda – 4

Yamaha TY – 2

Aircooled Mono:

Aprilia – 1

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 3

Scorpa – 1

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 10

GasGas – 3

Honda – 1

Montesa – 1

Sherco – 4

TRS – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Ian Jones, Paul Owen and Mark Gasekell

With a clash of Round 2 of the Kia Championshp their was always a risk that numbers could be down but although a few club members were taking part at Lancs County MCC, the club still opened this March event with 75 riders. Of these, 33 were Pre 65’s, 16 were twinshocks with 8 Air Cooled Monos and 18 modern mono’s making up the count. The Intermediate class was the highest subscribed with 31 riders taking the popular “green route”. 27 riders tacked the clubman “yellow” route and 10 Experts on Red and 7 on Beginners / White route finished off the entries.

The event started slightly earlier with a 10:30 gathering to award the final Championship places for 2018. It was great to see so many riders taking pleasure in the presentation and congratulating their fellow riders and set up the second round of this year nicely by reminding us that whilst we all say that we only do it “for fun”, actually their is an underlying Championship going on in the background….

Ian Jones – Twinshock Expert

If Carlsberg made trials venues Pen y Graig would be top of my list, so much scope that the section setters put to good use in this old limestone quarry last worked in the 1950s. also a plus factor is after heavy rain all day saturday the nature of the quarry means that it drains pretty well leaving the 10 sections in prime condition for sundays action where an excellent turn out of over 70 keen riders considering there was a kia round and a local wrexham trial waited in sunny conditions to do battle over 4 laps.

After a nice presentation of last years award winners at 10,30 it was time to start engines smell some castrol R and ride down the narrow track to the quarry. I buddied up with fellow fantic rider Julian Price as i always find it easier to ride round the first lap with a competitor doing the same route to get ideas on different lines and sometimes the correct route as i’m colour blind and get mixed up with red and green markers.

We started at section 3, a twisty ride through the trees and a tricky exit up a narrow bank between two trees. First gear selected and off to a steady start until the last bank where the back wheel spun and had to have a steadying dab, its going to be one of those days I thought to myself.

Section 4, I cleaned and my confidence came back a bit then onto the 5th where you had to ride up a short steep bank then back down again into a tight left turn then a tight right turn with rocks and ruts hidden under a foot of murky water were a steady throttle and clutch control was required,another clean, this was my lucky section because if Julian had’nt of ridden it first i would have gone the wrong way up the first bank and had a five from the eagle eyed Harry.

Section 6 and 7 were rock sections and were new to me, very easy to mess these 2 up. A nice steady pace over the slippy moss covered rocks was the order and then onto section 8, a gentle decent into a narrow gap between 2 trees and a choice of lines over some rocks then a short steep shaley climb then over a fairly big log that got slippery every lap. I watched 4 experts go clean on this one, everyone on a different line, so this messed my head a bit as I could not decide which was best. Anyhow when i got to it i followed Danny’s line over the rocks then sharp left then opened the fantic up to blast up the hill, because the bike had been cold for a while it choked up badly and i was glad it had enough momentum to carry me clean to the ends cards.

Section 9, a gentle meander through the trees then down into a steep bowl, tight right turn, “you can go wide ,but dont take the mic” were the stern words of observer Mr Samuel.

Section 10 next up and I had to work this one out on my own as all my classmates had moved on, just a tight tricky finish to this one as I had to lift my front wheel over a rock on full lock but got away with it with a clean. Section 1 would have given a modern mono never mind a twin shock or pre 65 a good suspension workout with its mud covered sharp edged rocks ready to catch you out, same as section 2 where good brakes where required.

So first lap was done and 1 mark lost and I’m feeling better on the bike but also knowing that a mistake or a 5 would put paid to a good result. 2nd and 3rd laps managed to go clean, now I can feel the pressures on for the final lap and I’ve drank all my water in my backpack. lm convinced that drinking water helps me to concentrate, but I kept it together and finished the day with 1 mark lost.

Thanks to the organisers and observers. I feel I’m really lucky to have a hard working trials club within a half hour drive,

Paul “Moz” Owen – Pre 65 Intermediate

Round 2 of Aqueduct Classic Trials. It was a sunny fresh start with the 2018 Championship presentation held before the days event. Was good to see everyone in good spirits and plenty of banta being splashed out. Or as my dad says.. “plenty of oil being spilt” haha.

So here are 3 of my favourite sections from the 10.

Section 5: With a straight forward incline up a bank to a right turn and back down the slippy mud as you slid to the waters edge and over slippy roots and rocks it was up a wet muddy bank to a sharp left and then into a muddy bog to a uphill exit.

Section 7: It looked easy as you just rode around a rocky banking. But with some largeish rocks to get between and over on the narrow path, if you lost your balance a dab would be easy to pick up.

Section 10: A slight left downhill start to an off camber left over a slippy wet root that could easily take a dab, then a sharp right turn down a long bank that was greasy. Then another right turn down between some trees into the bottom of a bomb hole then a left off camber rocky bank to the out gate. It was so easy to lock up the front wheel on this down hill section.

It was a honour to win the Chris Davies memorial trophy as well as the 2018 inters championship.

 So another great trial at a great venue by such a great little club

Mark Gaskell – Pre 65 Intermediate and Talei Mallard – Modern Mono Beginners

It was a stroke of genius to have the club awards presentation before the trial, and I’m not just saying that because I received one! A much larger attendance was guaranteed, and with a free bacon sandwich from Chris de Burger’s fine foods emporium, everyone was smiling.

The weather had even abated, the storms of yesterday all but forgotten. I was contesting the green, intermediate route on a Triumph Twin, my almost step-daughter the white, novice route on a Beta Evo 200.

Section 2 on the white route took a right turn, over a jumble of rocks, then left turn to the end. I pointed out to Talei that if she took a wide sweeping right, it would give her a straight line over the rocks, but it didn’t quite translate to the handlebars. She did however manage 3,2,1, clean, so improving all the time. The green route took an uphill right turn around a tree, then down to a left over some loose rocks, and out to the right over a rockery. I had a silly dab on lap one, another on lap two, cleaned third lap, but fell foul of a displaced boulder on the last lap and paddled my way out for a 3.

Section 5 caused Talei some concern after seeing two riders in succession take an early bath in the mud hole. The prospect hadn’t escaped my notice either! Her route was a straightforward crossing of the mud hole, but with a short steep bank for the exit. Mine involved a 90 degree right turn in the mud, which hid some roots and rocks to add interest, before a short bank up to a 180 degree slimy left and out via the same bank as the white route. Talei had two cleans and two 5’s. One for missing the turn at the start owing to too much throttle, one for not getting up the bank at the end owing to too little! My first attempt involved some legwork to save a wayward front end and avoid disaster. The second a dab to do the same. The third I tried a different line, unsuccessfully for 5, but cleaned it on the last lap.

Section 8 white route started by riding down a long descent off the haul road, turn along the top of the embankment and then a steady climb back out to the haul road. A trifle daunting for our novice at first, but she soon got used to the idea and only dropped one mark. The green route followed the same descent, but then went further down, took a wiggle between two trees and over some rocks, then turned tight left to bring you a bikes length from what looked like a vertical wall. Probably only 15ft high, but quite steep and difficult to walk up. Waiting for my attempt I saw two expert route riders fail to get up the hill, and although their turn was a deal tighter than ours, I was just a little nervous as I got the go ahead from the observer. Holding my line through the turn, then possibly the first time I have used full throttle in a section on the Triumph saw me cresting the hill with ease, almost overshooting the next turn before the exit! Brilliant stuff, and happily repeated for the remaining laps.

I had a great day, and felt that I rode pretty well, but the scoresheet shows that quite a few other people rode better. Must try harder! (funny, sure I’ve heard that before!) Talei learned a lot from her ride, met a couple of types of obstacle that she has never ridden before, and is now plotting a determined assault on the novice championship.

Rob Sloggett – Clubman Route (Twinshock)

A few years ago I had a ski-ing lesson. Now I have ski’d for a few years but thought a couple of hours 1-2-1 would help hone my technique. After the lesson my ski instructor gave me some great advice. “Take what I have taught you and go on the Green and Blue runs only. Go where it is easier and focus on your technique. You will learn nothing that I have taught you by going down a black route, all that will do is teach you how to survive getting down a black route.

And that has sort of been my challenge to myself the last couple of events. As well as getting use to the new bikes characteristics I have wanted to focus on two things, slowing myself down in the sections to give myself time to think and also trying to ride a more defined line. In order to o this, I had dropped into the Clubman route and have really enjoyed the challenge. Whats the challenge in an easier route I hear you ask? Well as well as the self imposed pressure of “its an easier route so I really should not drop many marks should I?”, the walk of the section force me to pick out specific elements of the section that I knew were in my weak spot. Let me explain with my favourite sections from the day…

Section 1: the second half was straight forward, run across a high gully, drop down to a simple exit, but the start was a peach. An open run in presented a cross camber climb at a 45 degree angle. About a 5 to 6 foot incline with a flag width of about 3 foot seemed OK but the bank face was rocks of different sizes and varying gaps. No natural line, just a pick a route and ride it out. This is where the mixture of “I want to ride this section clean” and “I want to pick a specific line for the front wheel” came into play and it felt a real challenge trying to keep my speed down (where I would have normally attacked it) and visualising and controlling the front wheel. Four cleans left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

Section 5: As pre the report by Paul above, this was a variation for the Clubman route and a great opportunity to try the bikes second gear. Probably not needed but a good chance to see how the bike picked up in a higher gear. The first incline was OK then you had a 180 degree right turn on the top of the bank to drop back down. Two options here, run out wide on the turn but traverse some small gullies and have a more straight on approach to the drop down the back or run inside on the turn parallel to the bank but have a move accute transition into the drop down. First two laps I was unstable across the gullies (taking the wider route) and lost a dab on the first lap and got close to a dab on the second lap so for the last two laps I took the inside line which force me to work on more controlled braking down the bank as you were tipping in at an angle as opposed to straight on. The second part of the section was up the bank, turn left, drop back into a muddy gully then up the opposite bank and turn left through the out cards. A single dab but maybe a close second one which the observer gave me the benefit of the doubt on.

Section 8: This was another great learning section. A meander through trees allowed precision and slow throttle control to be emphasised but then the mid secton threw in a nice curve ball. My initial walk made me thing “thats not the yellow route, thats more like a green” and thats the great thing about this sport. The psycological barrier that you have to overcome and the elation when you master it is just the best. So what was the challenge? Well from the top of the bank you had to tip down into a basin withj a relatively tight looking right hand drop but then once in the bottom of the basin you had to turn 180 degrees left and straight up the opposite bank. My immediate reaction was that the basin turn was tight and could force a dab but actually if you ran high on the opposite bank (albeit changing direction on the bank wall) you actually got a good run up the adjacent bank. A great excercise once again in picking a single element out from the section as a point of focus. Clean for the day on that part but a stupid silly dab on the way out! Typical.

Hopefully next month a return to Intermediate route but I have really enjoyed riding the clubman route and learning a lot from it! As always, huge thanks to the organisers, observers and additional helpers of all shapes and sizes.

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

Thanks to all a good trial again. Riding yellow route . I liked a few of the longer sections. All were dooable but still managed to drop 15. I think I need to slow up a bit! Section 5 seem to catch a few out including myself. Enjoyed 6,8,9 best – Neil Parker

I’m a novice observer, thought my section was well planned out! Loved the Red route with riders 71,72,73 I think they were, all totally relaxed. Loved my day – Suzanne Bowkett (Observer)

Well done aqueduct classic team. Brilliant trial. Red route today. Enjoyed it muchly. Thanks to the observers – Gary Shaw

Great sections,bike running well & my favourite venue but I didn’t do it justice today-terrible 1st& 2nd laps then got better for last two-but had great day anyway. Big thanks to all involved in making it happen – Ken Williams

We return to Pen Y Graig again next month and look forward to seeing you all there. As always a huge thanks to the club team, the observers, land owner and Chris and his catering team.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (3); Gary Shaw, Triumph (16); Guy Rogers, BSA (21)

Pre 65 Intermediate: David Beddoes, Francis Barnett (1); Tony Dillow, Triumph (2); Craig Howard, BSA (3)

Pre 65 Clubman: Roger Smith, BSA (2); Graham Miller, Triumph (8); Peter Cockins, BSA (9)

Pre 65 Beginner: Kevin O’Toole, Matchless (6); K Lloyd, BSA (6); Chris Atherton, BSA (19)

Twinshock Expert: Ian Jones, Fantic (1); Julian Price, Frantic (33); Jack Lycett, Yamaha (47)

Twinshock Intermediate: Stephen Knight, Yamaha (2); Alex Barrie, Honda (5); Jeff Hurley, Fantic (14)

Twinshock Clubman: Rob Sloggett, Bultaco (3); Graham Pennington, Ossa (11); Dave Lycett, Yamaha (20) (

Twinshock Beginner:No Finishers

AC Mono Expert:No enteries

AC Mono Intermediate: Gordon Wilson, Honda (2); Martin Powell, Honda (5); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (17)

AC Mono Clubman: Richard Corbert, Scorpa (0); Ken Williams, Honda (7)

AC Mono Beginner: No enteries

Modern Mono Expert: No enteries

Modern Mono Intermediate: Andrew Dean, Beta (0); David Ellis, Beta (3); Paul Hempkins, Gag Gas (14)

Modern Mono Clubman: Martin Howard, Beta (6); Hayden Rainford, Beta (8); David Molyneaux, Beta (12)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews (20); Talei Mallard, Beta (34)

Observers:

Section 1 – Izzy

Section 2 – Suz

Section 3 – Celine

Section 4 – Chris

Section 5 – Harry

Section 6 – Russ

Section 7 – Gordon

Section 8 – Dave

Section 9 – Mark

Section 10 – Jan

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 33

Twinshock – 16

A/C Mono – 8

Modern Mono – 18

Total = 75

Classes

Expert – 10

Intermediate – 31

Clubman – 27

Beginner – 7

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 16

Dot – 1

Drayton Bantam – 1

Francis Barnett – 4

Matchless – 1

Norton – 1

Saracen – 1

Triumph – 7

Twinshock:

Bultaco – 2

Fantic – 5

Honda – 2

Montesa – 1

Ossa – 1

Yamaha Majesty – 1

Yamaha TY – 3

Aircooled Mono:

Fantic – 1

GasGas – 1

Honda – 3

Scorpa – 2

Yamaha – 1

Modern Mono:

Beta – 10

GasGas – 2

Montesa – 1

Sherco – 4

Unlisted – 1

Event Report by Rob Sloggett, Paul Owen, Graham Miller & Alan Dyson

 I started the January 2018 report with these words…. “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“. So how do you start it when the opening number for January 2019 tips the balance at 104 riders? I suppose you just continue to appreciate the hard work of the club team and report on what was a fantastic event.

The incredible turnout saw 41 Pre 65’s joined by 30 Twinshocks, 9 AC Monos and 24 Modern Monos. The increase was significantly biased towards the Pre 65 and Twinshock classes which was even more appreciated by the spectators at this great venue where the sections are marked out around the edge of a quarry giving quick and easy reach to the competitors.

It was good to see 24 riders take to the Expert route with 44 riders tackling the Inter route, 28 in the Clubman and 8 in the Beginners class.

Alan Dyson – First time spectator

What a fresh start to the New Year!

A cold Sunday watching my first classic trial invited to by a club member and good friend Mark Newman. Having rode trials bikes previously but never attended a competitive club trial, I was keen to come and see what it was all about having spoken to Mark about trials bikes and future club events on various occasions. I didn’t expect such a large turnout of riders and spectators at club level however when we arrived there I was taken by surprise as to how many people were actually competing and what was involved in organizing a club trial.

I was introduced to Russell the ‘boss man’ of the event and also many club members who I have to say were a great group of guys and girls who made me feel very welcome and answered any questions I asked. As a 1st time spectator I was keen to see as many of the sections as possible, so armed with my camera off I went. The sections were all very well set out with a varied set of routes and were suitable for all level of riders. The safety and organization around the event was excellent…and the butty van was second to none!

Watching all the riders I was impressed with the level of skill but more the level of fun they were having and even though the event is competitive, the camaraderie between the riders was impressive. After taking quite a lot of ‘No Pressure’ pictures during the day I had a wander between sections to look at the different types of classic trials bikes, where yet again everyone I met and spoke to was welcoming and accommodating.

I have well and truly been bitten by the bug! I’d like to thank Aqueduct Classic Trial Club for a great day and not forgetting Mark Newman for the invitation and the experience of watching a competitive classic club trial.

Paul “Moz” Owen – Inter Route (Pre 65)

With over 100 riders it was a busy day for all observers. What a great venue and a very enjoyable trial. 10 challenging sections of rock, mud and slippy roots. Here is my pick of 3 of the 10 sections.

Section 3. Starting off with a 10ft climb and onto some large loose rocks into a left turn and another climb to a off camber bank. Then a sharp left down loose chippings to a right turn and the out gate.

Section 9. Starting on the flat you entered the section and did a 180 degree turn between some trees in a muddy bog then you turned left up a muddy bank but it was grippy. At the top you turned left and stopped back down to the flat and the end gate. But it was slippy and you didn’t want to touch the brakes!

Section 10. A muddy start gate then across the stream and up a short steep bank to a left around a tree then to a off camber bank and along some slippy tree root covered in wet mud. Then over a big tree root to a steep left bank and back into a muddy stream and along to the end gate.

It was great to see so many riders and all of them smiling and happy to be on a bike after the Christmas break. Big thanks to aqueduct classic for another great trials run by a very successful dedicated team . And success breeds success

Rob Sloggett – Clubman Route (Twinshock)

At last! After 5 months off the bike, the Christmas break allowed me to finish it off and after a couple of practices at Nant Ucha I was ready to throw myself back into another season at Aqueduct. After making the mistake a few years ago of taking a newly rebuilt / modified bike straight into a completion and not really being use to it I cracked a rib (my fault!) so for this re-boot I decided to drop down to the clubman class, have an enjoyable days sport and make sure I was happy and confident before going back up into the Inter class. And I was so glad I did ….. because I had a blast! The clubman route gave me enough pressure in the sections where I knew I should clean it not to fall into silly dabs but enough variety to throw the odd challenge at me to develop my skills and test the bike out.

So what were my highlights? Well it started with Section 4. This seemed quiet unassuming. A straight entry on the flat and immediately do a quick right left on flat ground to line up to a straight uphill gradient. Whilst the surface was loose stone this was compacted and not an issue but at the top of it was the main challenge of the section. Positioned across a 1 meter width span was a nook in the rock to the left but a large stone to the right big enough to catch your cases it you got the left hand line wrong. To the right was a rock large enough to make you consider the left hand side but not so large that you would consider riding over it. After that a small gradient up, a shallow right hand turn then a downhill run to the end cards. As this was a learning ride, I wanted to see how the bike took the rock so that was my target. Two cleans and a silly dab on the first 3 laps so on the last lap I tried the left hand side to see how my bottle lasted with the smaller gap. It was the wrong move and cost me 2 daps but at least I learnt its better to go over than around!

Section 7 was my Achilles heal. You started on a blind bank where you could see the start cards but not visualize your line. You were then presented with an uphill gully with a rock cluster (uphill attack) or peel right and go around the rock. Unfortunately you then had a sharp left across two groups of rocks before dropping down to the end cards. On this occasion I tried the “go around” as opposed to over and on the first 3 laps took 3’s (some with more than 3 dabs). I spoke to a couple of other clubman riders on the last lap who had tried going over the rock and felt it was a more rideable line. For the last lap I rewalked the section and felt comfortable with the challenge, selected first gear and attacked it. Two silly daps but nothing like my previous attempts and felt with another pass I probably could have mastered it for a single dab or maybe a clean.

Section 9 was my only self inflicted 5 (I had one on Section 1 but that was as a result of the chain jumping off so I’m not counting that…) A simple section on paper, enter in with a 180 right loop them an uphill 270 left over a sludgy base. This was the main obstacle and my natural line was go wide on the 270 and kiss the outside flag. I could not get this consistently and dropped a single dap each time as the transition on the bank tipped the bike in. For the last lap I wanted to try a tighter line and have 2nd gear selected in-case the bike lost traction and I needed a bit of grunt. Needless to say the line, gearing and technique aligned in the perfect storm and I was rewarded with a 5. After my lap had finished I went back to the section, asked the observer if I was OK for a practice ride and cleaned it straight away. Such is the joy of this sport.

Graham Miller – Clubman Route (Pre-65)

Later start than usual knowing that parking at the quarry would be plentiful and pleasing to see a 100+ rider entry today. Congratulations to the organizers and observers for providing a great trial, severity just right to test but not punish us and perfect weather conditions.

Section 1: drop in down a steep bank, don’t get too ambitious and turn too early, out of the water up the bank and head for the V between the trees. Over the roots and home and dry after a sharp left followed by a right bringing the end cards into sight.

Section 2: can’t get too close to the start so kept peering out to see the lady observer’s welcome beckoning. Tricky little section and decided to keep close to the left otherwise the rocks bite back. Fourth lap went too close to the left and the tree snapped the clutch lever off – wondered why it was dangling in front of me and wished I had invested in a pair of Domino’s instead of the cast Amal copies !

Section 3: again a long distance entry up a steep bank and immediately into the section. Watch out for the landing after the descent over the rock step but generally manageable.

Section 4: more rocks to attack the chain when running a large rear sprocket on the Cub so keeping right over the rock step proved to be the safest approach. Grip the handlebars tight to outwit the loose rocks and sail through to the finish.

Section 5: awkward hill waiting to get into the section but thankfully the Cub’s brakes weren’t too wet so they worked OK today. A tricky manoeuvre through a pair of rocks and a left turn at the finish.

Section 6: first queuing encountered but a good time for a catch-up with friends. Winding section with an adverse camber in the middle which I thought might get worse through the day. However, all was well and although the surface broke away, there was plenty of grip underneath.

Section 7: probably the hardest section of the day. Avoid the daunting looking rock step at your peril as trying to turn on the smaller rocks was taking marks of most riders. Straight up the rock step which provided a surprising amount of grip, or maybe it’s the difference between a Pirelli MT43 and my new sticky IRC, hold tight and bounce out with only the end cards in mind.

Section 8: straightforward entry until after the right turn when the rock/root step is quickly upon you. Blip the throttle, pull back on the bars and climb to the summit.

Section 9: figure of eight with an adverse camber over a rut. Go wide and end up too high for the banked turn risking the front wheel cutting away; too tight, loose traction and take a dab – the choice is yours.

Section 10: second gear to maintain momentum up the hill followed by a tight left turn heading through a narrow gap between trees and down into a murky mire. Avoid the two hidden rocks, sweep around and out to start lap 2 to do it all over again.

The feedback on Facebook from the riders provided a few sound bites as follows:

Just like to say thanks for a great day Sunday it was my first comp ever and I really enjoyed it. Great club with a great attitude.Big Thanks to Paul Cartwright for keeping me going in the right direction – Paul Corcoran

A few photos of a fantastic day out with Aqueduct Classics, a great bunch thanks for making us so welcome, im hooked, got to give this a go, looking for a bike now – Jeff Hughes

Great start to 2019, cracking venue and challenging (for me anyway) Green route. Thanks to all observers, organisers and caterers. You must be doing something right for 100+ entry – Graham Pennington

February sees us hosting the opening round of the 2019 Kia Championship at Plas Onn and as always we are keen for observers, but for this report, all that is left to say is a huge thank-you and well done to the club for accomodating the 100+ riders and putting on such a great event. The observers as always did a fantastic job and a big thank-you to them and finally to the land owners, the back room team and the caterers, you know how much you are appreciated.

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Top Places:

Pre 65 Expert: James Francis, BSA (2); Danny Littlehales, Francis Barnett (5); Russ Jones, Triumph (13)

Pre 65 Intermediate: Stephen Knight, BSA (3); Paul Own, BSA (4); Paul Cook, Francis Barnett (5); Phil Alderman, BSA (5)

Pre 65 Clubman: Graham Miller, Triumph (5); Rob Godwin, Francis Barnett (16); Roger Smith, BSA (16)

Pre 65 Beginner: Chris Atherton, BSA (23)

Twinshock Expert: Matt Spink, Fantic (3); Steve Thompson, Honda (8); Ian Jones, Fantic (11); Tim Cuffin, Yamaha (11)

Twinshock Intermediate: Gary Hawkins, Fantic (2); Dave Pengillery, Kawasaki (4); Jim Droughton, Yamaha (6)

Twinshock Clubman: Keith Jones, Majesty (9); Rob Sloggett, Bultaco (30); Philip Roberts, Fantic (34)

Twinshock Beginner: Ken Garfield, Yamaha (4); Stuart Smith, Armstrong (7)

AC Mono Expert: Jim Williams, Honda (10); Robin Foulkes, Yamaha (43)

AC Mono Intermediate: Gordon Wilson, Honda (8); Alec Roberts, Scorpa (12); Paul Cartwright, Gas Gas (28)

AC Mono Clubman: Andy Steele, Yamaha (13)

AC Mono Beginner: David Evans, Fantic (9)

Modern Mono Expert: Dan Charles, Beta (35); Neil Jackson, TRS (36); Declan Marsden, Gas Gas (39)

Modern Mono Intermediate: David Ellis, Beta (12); Paul Hempkins, Gas Gas (12); Steve Walker, Sherco (13)

Modern Mono Clubman: Ken Williams, Unlisted (11); Harley Lewis, Gas Gas (12); Pat Forde, Beta (17)

Modern Mono Beginners: Chris Matthews, Unlisted (20); Talei Mallard, Beta (36)

Observers:

Section 1 – Geoff Jones

Section 2 – Ange Godsmark

Section 3 – Matin Pengilley

Section 4 – Dannny Knight

Section 5 – Mark Samuel

Section 6 – Harry South

Section 7 – Dave Williams

Section 8 – Izzy Cartwright

Section 9 – Chris Samuel

Section 10 – Suzanne Bowkett

Bike Stats:

Pre 65 – 41

Twinshock – 30

A/C Mono – 9

Modern Mono – 24

Total = 104

Classes

Expert – 24

Intermediate – 44

Clubman – 28

Beginner – 8

Bikes

Pre 65:

Ariel – 1

BSA – 18

Dot – 2

Drayton Bantam – 1

Francis Barnett – 6

James – 2

Matchless – 1

Saracen – 1

Triumph – 8

Twinshock:

Aprilia – 1

Armstrong – 1

Bultaco – 3

Fantic – 11

Honda – 5

Kawasaki – 1

Majesty – 1

Montesa – 1

Ossa – 1

Yamaha TY – 4

Unlisted – 1

Aircooled Mono:

Fantic – 2

GasGas – 2

Honda – 2

Scorpa – 1

Yamaha – 2

Modern Mono:

Beta – 11

GasGas – 6

Montesa – 1

Ossa –

Scorpa – 1

Sherco – 2

TRS – 1

Unlisted – 2