The forecast was good and true despite the cloud of Mr Kinbotes absence . Good turnout especially from the Rossi , with a scattering of trailbadgers a banbridge wheeler and various other reprobates. Mr and Mrs Big Dave were missed badly .
Jod was the first faller after about 100 yards either a mechanical or perhaps a bike choice error . The 26 2 x 10 perhaps not ideal , the 27.5 1x 11 or the 29 2 x 11might have been better …the dilema!
The nice weather was conducive to a relaxed pace which Martin took advantage of up Sallys Yard . Nobody minded as the views at the top were stunning .
ONE
Then Down the gully where Kieran practiced his somersaults , and despite an astutely sited photograher the riders were otherwise not for falling even if there were a good few sideways moments . Regrouped at the bottom and off up Fiddlers .Martin decided a fry would be more relaxing than another loop at this stage while Peter was feeling the pain and in a moment of madness removed his helmet . I had to restrain Mr Power from demonstrating the benefit of a helmet directly! Doc Lewis notching up the clear rounds here but more later .
TWO
Then home by Ballynagelty where Chris showed how climbing should be done . Tea and sandwiches ensued and there were more people who suddenly had hairdressing appointments .
Third lap , Martin had finished a 9 item fry tea and toast scrambled egg on wheaten and rejoined us for a tunnel loop and down by ballynagelty where several riders were disqualified for alterations to route that had not been submiited in triplicate to the fat controller . No medal for anyone who went down “Atlantic” , mean while it was my turn to parctice somersalts on the ballyedmond trails ..lucky escape,
Three
At the end of the third lap most of the Rossi to my knowledge suddenly realised they left the cat in and had to dash home …hmmmmmm. That left the stalwarts minus Kenny who had only got a day pass from intensive care with his cough .It was a very bad cough .
The switch backs brings me back to Doc lewis who at this stage was on three clear rounds and insearch of the elusive fourth . i gave him my usual psychological preparation on the way up but all to no avail ….he was devastated and got our usual sympathetic ear.
Four
Many thanks to all for turning up and special thanks to mr power who wins the most patient competitor award for being sweeper all day when we all know his true place is at the front .
the route is available here
All photos available here