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Dear Mr Mullins,

I just wanted to drop you a note to say thank you very much for your kind and patient help so early on in the Adrian Ellis enduro yesterday. After my Gasser fouled it's plug (or rather after I had fouled the plug...hardly the bike's fault if I had adequately warmed it up and used my minute fully at the start...) so early on I was struggling not to feel downcast and defeated. The patient attention and help of you and Carl (didn't catch his full name, but if you have contact with him please tell him how grateful I am) enabled me to get going and restart, it felt like I had a mountain to climb, but what really helped was your shouted encouragement as I passed you by after I got the bike restarted. I remember thinking that I wanted to give it my best to respect the help you and Carl provided...so thank you very much. This year is the first year I have ridden at clubman level and really all I am after is to finish and you both helped me do that. The spirit of enduro is embodied in folk like you...thanks.

Howard Davis

Red Kite

just a quick note to thank all involved with the red kite,FANTASTIC!,real enthusiasts ,really well organised,and i so glad people enjoyed seeing the ktm out on only its second ever event!(the first one was a bit longer!,)shame i selected totally the wrong tyres,(i would have got more grip on slicks. lesson learnt!,she goes back home to jd racing for a service and checkover and to have some decals refitted to replace some of the ones that have gone brittle and decayed. i intend to keep it as original as possible and do all the big bike challenge events,also road use and shows etc. if you would like to display it then contact me. best wishes and safe riding, tim stevens, john deacons 1999 granada dakar 660 ktm

Hi Bob

This was my first event EVER and I only have my CBT (yes I was the one with the 'L' plates) so I particulalry appreciated the friendly atmosphere before, during and after the rally. The rugby club were great and served me with a fab sausage sandwich which at one point I thought I may have to leave due to nerves which passed once I hit the 'dual carriageway'. Particular thanks to the lady who asked me to join her and her friends so I had someone to ride with at the start - she gave me real confidence and even though my special test times were horrendous they got faster on the second lap and I thnk i have her to partially thank for that, and I must say sorry for not saying goodbye to her as I was met by my boyfriend at the start of the second lap (trail bike runner up and who may have won if he hadn't ridden round with me so apologies to him too) and left them to go on without me. Thanks to Huw for the great photos and for quite literally cheering me on and to the others I could hear clapping and cheering - much appreciated - I think the 'L' plates helped! I had an absolutley amazing time pushing my little Honda 125 XLR to it's limits through those lovely holes on the driver training area on the second special test i never imagined getting wet and muddy could be quite so much fun! I only fell off twice, once my bike stalled and then rolled freely down the grassy hillside until I stepped off and once coming off the last special test down that short steep step where my bike, screaming down in first gear didn't have the power to roll out of the hole at the bottom, and just stopped and tipped me off - oops! I was exhausted at the end of the day but the adrenaline kept me annoyingly perky on the journey home (more apologies to Mark) and just as I stopped talking to anyone who would listen about my fantastic weekend biking in Llandovery I was told by Mark's Dad that I'd been awarded 'The Spirit of the Red Kite' - WOO! So even more apologies to everyone around me for now babbling on about that, I promise I'll stop at some point - just not quite yet!

Can't wait to have another go - thank you WTRA!!

George :)

Hi Bob & George :-)

Just read the article posted regarding George's experience of the Red Kite and would like to add that it was one of the nicest events that I have taken part in. Being the 'lady' (not a description often levelled at me) concerned I am glad that we were able to encourage George on her first experience. I hope to see her at more events soon. As one of our party was also a 'rally virgin', it seemed the sensible option to offer encouragement and support to another! As mentioned having taken part in other rallies, on a geriatric DT175 and a senile DR200, it was nice to not have to worry about being forced off the track or harassed into errors by the other riders on much more capabable machines, which unfortunatelly happens at some events. The whole rally from start (first junction - wrong way) to finish (in the rain) was excellent and a credit to the organisers.

Loraine ;-)

Hello Bob, I would like to thank all involved with the organisation on the Red Kite Rally it made the 8 hour round trip from Cornwall worthwhile. I must also thank who ever found my front brake calliper, which was ripped off by a rock in the last special test, I felt something lock the front wheel and assumed it was a rock, it seem to clear so i carried on. My front mud guard was now flapping but I could live with that, what I and the spectators did not know was that I had no front brake, as you can imagine I entered the last water ditch a little faster than anticipated. I would also like to thank Pauline of outdoorliteadventures@btinternet.com for her hospitality, she runs a bunk house just out side Llandovery and made our stay most enjoyable, we were her first off road bikers and she could not have made us more welcome. Lastly may I hazard a guess to why the numbers were down, to a lot of potential riders the regs. are off putting as they stated that strict noise limits were to be adhered too and if these were carried out most if not all KTM exc's and a lot of other bikes would have been excluded. But as we all heard on the day there were plenty of bikes way over the limit. It would be far more helpfull to new riders to say if they have a standard system then they will be OK. Once again thank's for a get day see you all in Northumberland, which will probably be a little more than a 8 hour round trip from Cornwall

Chris Pascoe (no.2)

Arrived at Llandovery Rugby club nice and early on Easter Sunday, despite somebody trying to catch me out by changing the time. Felt very good and excited at the prospect of my first rally in over a year, due to injuries and other commitments. Met up with Al Wilson who complained of drinking too much the night before, wonder why I volunteered to drive. Got scrutineered, signed on, put my fuel can in the trailer (excellent service thank you) and settled down to eat a bacon buttie and wait. Before I knew it 10:26 was here and I was ready to start, the guy in front was still trying to start his XR that was not having any of it, knew there was a reason for taking the weight penalty for a starter motor. My KTM has been in bits for a while and is still not ready to come out on the public highway, so I had to use my CCM404DS for this event, has taken me a year to sort out the factory installed problems but I think I am getting there with this one. I wasn't allowed in the trail class as it didn't have rear pegs, hadn't realised this before but why didn't the factory fit them? I followed number 52 who was on the same minute as me for the road work, as he seemed to know where he was going and 55mph was quite comfortable, but to be honest I needed have worried the road work was so simple even I wouldn't have got lost. A KTM 950 started the minute behind us and as expected came thundering past, turned up the dual carriageway into the ranges for the start of lap 1, first bit of grass and back past the KTM rather you than me. The start of the lap was a fair amount of tarmac, and pretty forgettable the only exceptions being a nice bit of peaty sloping grassland which had everybody teetering, especially the big bikes, a nice trundle up a slippy gully between some trees, a super fast track alongside the road (well we weren't on tarmac so I assumed the 20mph speed limit didn't apply), a load of army cadets squatting in fields with guns, were they trying to blend in or something ? and Huw/Bob telling everybody to go 20mph, blimey that is a long bit of tarmac at 20mph. Got to the start of special 1 and realised I would have to wait 45 minutes, this is the bit I remember disliking about rallies on the top of mountains the waiting round and getting cold, but I didn't the weather was quite pleasant and by the time I had eaten an apple and had a drink we were off. Up the gravel track turn right into the ruts bouncing everywhere, first problem, a Honda Dominator and another bike both lying on their sides in a puddle taking the whole track, riders and Marshals trying to them get going again. Up to the side and through the shrub round them. Caught the number 47 on the elephant, but he was in the same rut as me, cross into the other one and past. Then for some reason I decide to cross back into the original rut, don't know why I did this but I did and wham on the deck. Manage to get back up and going again before number 47 comes past. Over some very very slippy whoops, should have got more air but there wasn't the traction and I was still cursing myself for falling off. Past the end of test sign, BUT the test arrows were still there so I kept it a quick but not full test pace just in case until the test arrows stopped appearing. I think they may have wanted the original test longer than it ended up, if they had the cattle grid and bit of tarmac in the middle would have been interesting. We were now in the ranges proper, wide gravel tracks with those in corner berms which allow you to go faster than you thought possible round bends on gravel, very very well marked route with good warnings of tight bends, so very little panic braking required, or maybe I was going that much slower on the CCM. Arrived at the fuel stop with about half an hour to kill before my off, holding people back to their time here worked really well, as the second test was shortly after and you could roll up and go without a queue, so your muscles were already warmed up. The second test was the tank test track, the one with the PUDDLES, as this was the first lap I backed off a bit for the puddles and went round two of them as they looked especially deep, but still I ended up covered in mud. Can't really describe the rest of the test except I got to the end laughing like a mad man, and Russ Olivant said everybody came out with the same smile. Lap two seemed to go a lot quicker than lap one, but I had less waiting time so must have been going a bit slower. Had to stop and pick up the 950 KTM on the peaty ground, rather him than me again, those things are not light. Managed to stay on during test 1. During test 2 I did have a particularly bad landing hard enough to detach my tool bag, break my number plate, make me wince at the sound of metal on metal or metal on stone and smacked me up the backside something rotten. I misjudged the second puddle and went in fast front heavy thus got covered head to foot in chocolate coloured water, well it was Easter. Passed John Monger on his elephant trying to restart in a very deep puddle, no I didn't fill him in that would have been rude. Followed the road back to the rugby club (why oh why do cars overtake you when you are doing 60 in a 60 then slow to 40 for bends which can be taken quite safely at 60 Rant over) got my finishers award, loaded up and left, clean forgot about the food again, but after 12+ months on the bench I was so high from the ride I would have been lucky to remember my name. And the best bit, although my injuries hurt a little during test 2 it wasn't enough to make me feel unsafe, and after the event they haven't hurt one bit same can't be said for my butt after that landing. Why didn't more people enter this one there were only 110 starters, another excellent Welsh rally.

Shez

Great report Shez! There's not much to add after that, except that it was the most enjoyable rally I've done so far. Apart from the long slow tarmac section (which I guess had to be there to take us to the interesting bits!) for me it was just the right balance of tracks and offroad, mud and grass, ups and downs etc. The tank traps were a real hoot, especially when I got drenched overtaking a CRM, who probably also got a soaking. Sorry no. 52!

Many thanks to all who made this event possible.

Roll on the Ryedale!

Chris Balmforth

I'll second that, great event, well organised and a real blast. Thanks WTRA, especially Steve for sorting out our refuelling fears. Not many people would volunteer to drive a trailer rammed with old fuel cans across a live firing range.......

For me almost the biggest relief was my mate completing his first event. I did NOT want a repeat of 2 Jan and having to go round to his house after some light green laning to explain to his Mrs why Mark was in A&E and trying to keep a straight face when his little daughter is saying "Mummy why is Daddy in hospital again" the 'again' bit being the killer. He was easily capable of doing the rally, as he showed, I just had a bit of pursuading to do beforehand. CHEC next!

The 'button' came in useful when I assessed puddle - puddle doesn't do the expanse of water justice - depth v speed v gears wrong, stalled as the waters rose but managed to fire it up without a foot down. No points gained for that - as Shez pointed out - but a dry -er foot anyway.

Those tank traps are something else. It was only when I saw half a Marshal, by which I mean he was standing in water well over his waist, that I avoided one of the larger water sections and took to the bog instead. Thank you whoever that was!

And didn't learn from my experiences last time round, still hit the first bit of water too fast and coated everything including goggles with the red slurry on the second section.

Nearly did it again when barrelling along the gravel track up to the start of the first timed section, second time round, when a massive pool of water appeared with no time to stop. Locked up everything and still hit it too fast just hoping it was rideable and not one you had to skirt. Thankfully it was, but did cause some mirth from Mark who was sensibly letting me identify the major obstacles from a safe distance behind.

If I was going to say the first timed section was a bit short I'd have to point out the second more than made up for that. I was loving the flowing fire trails, pushing my luck on some of those corners, and thinking this is fun when we then wove our way to the tricky tank section. It seemed never ending first time round and I was desperately hoping every clump of spectators was the finish - I was just hanging on with gritted teeth.

Just like the Welsh minutes last forever when you're sitting waiting for the clock, those Welsh miles are incredibly long too.

Al

Hi Bob, You have had lots of reports on the rally so everyone can see what a great day it was. It was my first ever event of any kind and I would like to say to every one who has never competed "give it a go and you will be hooked". I would like to say a big THANK YOU to Mandy and the team at W.T.R.A. Also, Thank you to all the people wearing day-glow slips. The Marshalls. To stand in the chilly morning air and be polite and help us when we were having so much fun must be frustrating. A personel Thank you goes to Steve Plain. He has spannered for world champions all over the globe, but still had time to help me with my chain and give me a few words of advice before the off. One thank you goes to the light fingered "so and so" that made off with my new 20ltr fuel can and pouring spout after the rally. Made my day. Huh!

Colin

Hi Bob, Another super WTRA event, keep em coming, had a great day riding on some familiar ground again, nice course with two good tests, yet again the WTRA boys and girls succeeded in laying on an event with a bit of something for all abilities of riders, the day was only hindered when i managed to get a puncture caused by a spent riffle case on the liaison section between test 1 and the refuel area (if you cant manage to rope somebody in to carry your fuel WTRA will get it there for you), good practice for tube changing in the middle of nowhere though! It was nice to receive your finishers award at the end of the event, but even nicer to sit down to some well earned food and laid on by the gang at the rugby club in Llandovery. If anyone reading this has thought about entering a WTRA Rally then decided not to you don't know what your missing, as soon as the entries for the Cambrian are out get 'em posted you'll have a ball.

Thanks once again

Gaz Hampson (No. 18)

Cwmcynydd H&H

Just a line of very sincere appreciation to all involved in planning and running this excellent event. We all seem to believe that the ‘sports’ in motorcycling are the riders, but those who worked so hard to create such a welcoming and superbly organised event deserve real appreciation. Although my formative years were spent in Eardisley and Kington, and I make frequent visits to Eardisley Churchyard, my life is inevitably spent in the Midlands due to work opportunities. The pleasure of the trip to this event had multiple pleasures and memories for me, but the scenery, superbly organised event and friendliness of the club made it a real treat. My only regret is that Selwyn was at the petrol pump for the day and not at the event !!!!

BUT…for those of you who can face the reverse of our journey from South Leicestershire and venture up into the Midlands, keep an eye open for the Cotswold Enduro Club. Not all venues can compete with last Sunday, but the going is rarely easy. Shuckborough Hall in Warwickshire is even more Welsh than last Sunday was, exceptional forest event. What does compare is the similar quality of organisation by Pete and Wendy Carter, exceptional catering, fair application of rules and friendly atmosphere. It will be worth the trip.

Now let’s just hope the entry for the Welsh is accepted, but thanks for a truly memorable day, and perhaps a word of surprise that Gas Gas 300 lasted 3 hours after the granite managed to burst the spy lens on the clutch master cylinder and all hydraulic pressure was lost. If you tried to win a fair ground prize for hitting that you would loose a fortune, yet the gravel got it on the first 200 yards. We will sort out a suitable preventive measure immediately, but those who have not woken up to the risk in any bike – it is not a Gas Gas exclusive weakness – may want to think through their preventive solution. I am off now to find the big role of tape – simple man full of simple solutions !!!! Finally ….many thanks for a truly memorable event. Geof Cobbe

Dear Sir

I have just finished reading Enduro News on your website about the hare n hound race at Cwmcynydd and am gutted to read that in the paragraph with regard to the novice class in which I came 3rd, (which by the way is the best that I have done so far, as i have only been competing for 12 months) that 1st, 2nd and 4th places were mentioned and i was not!!!!

This seems to be the case, after reading the whole article, beacuse I am not a local rider, does this mean I am not worthy of even a mention?

I am disappointed as I travelled from Stoke to take part and consider that I did well and its a shame to not even be acknowledged.

Regards.

Scott Hughes

Spring Surprise

Caerphilly M.C.C put on a fantastic event last Sunday. 70+ miles starting and finishing in Hay-on-Wye. It went a bit like this:

Monday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold :-( Tuesday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold :-( Wednesday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold :-( Thursday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold :-( Friday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold :-( Saturday weather f*&^ing cold, forecast for Hay f*&^ing cold but sunshine. Drive up to Herefordshire through snow/sleet/ice/rain - niice. Spend night @ mates, eat Chinese, drink beer :-) Get up at 6 :-( Scrape ice from windows and look out to see pickup and bike covered in ice :-(

Arrive at start noticing large amount of snow on Hay Bluff and Grwyne Fawr - the route being due to go up Grwyne Fawr shortly after the start. Get signed on by Yoshi Adams and find that the Grwyne Fawr route is impassable and a 15 mile road detour is necessary. Put on all the clothes and thermals I have and set off with the starter's advice of 'Follow the arrows for the detour - after the first right turn take care - it's sheet ice' not boding well. True to his word it was sheet ice and compacted snow all the way up Gospel Pass but, oddly, it was fun.

Then from the first section on it was a fantastic day's riding, one superb long lane after another climbing and descending, rock-strewn and sunken or high and open; a cornucopia of trails. Sections were well set out and testing without being frightening. The weather was just fantastic for trail riding too, bright and clear giving superb views but cold enough to not get sweaty.

At the end a great little special test in the wood at the back of the start/finish pub and just enough time for a very good curry in the pub before the long drive home.

Caerphilly should be running another LDT in the same area in the summer which could be on a Saturday with a booze-up after and a day trail-riding on the Sunday or maybe a 2 day LDT. Either way it should be one not to miss, keep an eye on Bob Mullins' website for details.

Ray Hockey

Please pass on my condolences to Sue, Gareth and family.

My last ride before moving to Australia 6 years ago was the Welsh 2 day.

Ray and Sue could not have been friendlier and more generous; I certainly would not have survived the atrocious conditions without there happy smiling faces at each refueling stop.

In the past 6 years Ray continued to help my family through MOT’s and servicing of my 75 yrd old Fathers car. In my Fathers words he was a true gentlemen and one of lifes colorful characters.

God Bless You Ray you’ll be missed and never forgotten

Gareth Evans in Perth Australia.

I experienced and will always remember the friendly and warm reception I always received from Ray & Sue.

Going to 5 Six Days with both Ray and Sue, Sue always feeding me with top nosh, and Ray always had time to pass on his experience and knowledge, but most of all his willingness to do anything to help me in anyway at the those six days.

Condolences to Sue and Family

Simon Evans

Our heartfelt condolences go to Sue, Gareth, Tracey and the kids. He will be sorely missed. His character, his quips, his enthusiasm for the sport. His determination (!!) to not let his health get in the way of what he wanted to do when he wanted to do it and that included his refusal to pack in the cigs !!

Look forward to seeing you Sue all the places we used to see the two of you. He'll be passing comment on it all even now - you can bet on that. I can still hear him from that last Honda conference as I was about to leave and it makes me smile - "Go on stay and have a drink with me and Sue, Wayne won't mind, I'll ring him !!"

With love, Family Braybrook.

I didn't know Ray closely but did have the privilege of spending some time in his little office having a few "sort out all the worlds problems, especially the ACU's" type of chats. He was a good man who told it as it was and I had the utmost respect for him, he'll be sadly missed by everyone who had any contact with him, my condolences to his family.

Regards Bob Jeffries

I for one experienced his hospitality at the Welsh 2Day and was fed by Sue! His support and advice were priceless - even running around the camp looking for spares or calling around his contacts, and he barely knew me. A great character who, for me, made the Welsh 2Day and without whom the Welsh will never be the same. I'll always think of him when riding Strata Florida.

Thanks Ray! Best Wishes to Sue and family.

Ian Craig.

My memories of Ray are of a good humoured & generous man. When WTRA proposed a British ISDE in 2003 Ray sponsored the club's stand at the Dirt Bike Expo & while closing the Welsh in 2002 I came across Ray packing up his servicing van. I had been towing another rider so my kdx was low on fuel & Ray scrounged up enough 2 stroke mix to get me to the finish.

A good bloke who will be missed.

Bob Mullins

Aberbeeg

After spending 6 hours down the hospital. Nearly all of it waiting in a chair I was happy to find nothing was broken. Thank God. just severely bruised ribs and a nose twice the normal size. Most of the blood was from a small cut on my nose...

They cleaned me up in the ambulance and finally found the cut. Must of looked scarry. Nice to see Bobs smiling face in the ambulance. That other lad in the ambulance with the broken collar bone didn't look to good. I hope he is OK...

I would just like to thank the marshals for looking after me and the bike. The bike and kit is in my mates garage so I can not check that everything got home but he thinks he got everything from you. The Ambulance boys also did a good job.

I am definitely aching from head to toe but as nothing is broken I should be out next weekend. (yer yer)

best regards

Joss Batey (# 146)

2005 PJM

Patrick James Memorial Rally. 12-13.2.05

In the early days of the internal combustion engine, people used to wonder just what their machines were capable of. Whether this was two, or four wheels, the machines were pushed to the limit of their ability in events designed to test their speed, endurance, power or agility. The Time Trials became short circuit races, road races, sprints and hill climbs. The scrambling became Trials, Enduro and Motocross. People used to use their everyday means of transport to compete. Vehicles were adapted and modified and have evolved to the state where modern machinery is very good at only one discipline.

To my mind, Rallies manage to hark back to these halcyon days, when a multi-purpose machine can be used for an off-road event. Whilst the entry has been opened to enduro machines on the grounds of financial viability when using large tracts of land, the large diversity of less than ideal machinery hints at the challenge riders undertake in the pursuit of self-gratification.

To this end, I entered the PJM on a quad. You may find this hard to relate to my above scribbling, but when you realise that race quads have more in common with a car than a bike, were designed for open motocross tracks and fields, and have about the same ground clearance as a road bike, then maybe you can see where I'm coming from, being that the course was designed for two wheels, one following the other.

For those worried about quads knocking people from their bikes, as I would have prior to my foray into the joys of four wheels, let me assure you speed was the last thing I was able to achieve on the course. Conversely, due to the relatively small entry (the highest number issued was 102), I did not find myself as an additional mobile hazard to be negotiated by the solos.

Was it easier on a quad? Probably with regard to the physical side. Was it quicker on a quad? Definitely not. Ruts through the forest had to have a wheel either side. Routes through multiple ruts had to be chosen carefully to avoid grounding the bottom of the machine. Fire-break speeds had to be kept up through the corners, as small quads don't accelerate very fast (with me on board). Downhill sections have to be taken especially carefully, as if you do beach the machine, then you will not get it off under power, and it's much heavier to lift.

I must admit that I will opt to take my Tupperware Torpedo with four wheels again in preference to a bike again, and would love to see more events of this type to compete in, though with the amount of competition I had (none), I can't see many events catering for quads.

Finally, thanks to the organisers, marshals, St Ioans, Welsh Forestry etc, as without them the event wouldn't have happened.

Araf

Hi bril weekend many thanks to everybody tuff about the snow see yuo soon Smiler Hutson

Just a quick note to say thanks to Colin, Marianne and all the marshals at this year's PJM Rally. Having been a marshal myself several times (the first time was at this event 2 or 3 years ago) I know exactly how long they stood out there, exactly how cold and miserable it gets and exactly how much panic sets in when you need to mark down the time of a rider who doesn't stop at the end of a test and you find that your paper's too soggy, the pen's run out or your clock has stopped because of the rain!

So imagine my surprise when I arrived at the 'feet up' sections on days 1 and 2 to find friendly, smiling and incredibly helpful marshals. I have never tried anything remotely trialsy in an event before. The marshals pointing out the lines and giving much needed encouragement was absolutely what I needed, and their good humour made my pathetic attempts a source of fun rather than embarrassment. On the first test on day 1, I was convinced that my magic Pamp would make up for any lack of skill and set off with feet on pegs and Lampkin in mind. In the first few feet I must have dabbed half a dozen times. When I said to the marshal, 'well, that'll be a five then', he informed me that I hadn't actually passed the start line yet (and he kept a straight face the whole time!).

The whole event was fab. I loved the rocky road on day 1 (where was it on day 2?), which I did manage standing up most of the way, thanks to a sneaky preview a couple of weeks ago, and the sunken road with lots of whoopy, rutty bits was most excellent fun. I also enjoyed the steep shaley climb with the rock step at the top, but as usual made a right mess of the downhill afterwards. The special test on day 2 where Liz Millet was marshalling would have been great if I'd have had some strength and willpower left, but even though I made a performance of it (apologies to the marshals for the small 'domestic' with Howard after his third time of picking up the Pamp in as many yards) I managed to finish the whole event, which was a real achievement for me.

Finally, I can't let this opportunity pass without flying the flag for the women contingent. There was probably the biggest turnout of women I've seen at a rally, several of whom had never ridden on off-road competitive event before. I think almost all of us managed to finish - certainly there was myself, Karen, Debs, Harriet (who is probably still smiling today) and Patricia Watson-Miller at the finish. I'm not sure about Tamsin or anyone else, but I think it paints a pretty impressive picture of women off-roaders (Marianne, we salute you!).

Thanks again for a fantastic event.

Anita.

Right now I ache in places that I had long forgotten. Quads (the muscles), shoulders, bicips all ache like a rude word. A sure sign of much effort expended.

The drive up the night before saw me sriving through the welsh equivalent of a monsoon and very high winds.

Day 1. Arrived early as had said I would marshall if I was needed. Bob Mullins and his lads were coming in large numbers so I could race, (well take part and wobble round at the back). My late entry meant I could happily ride round at the back without the usual concern of getting my face filled in by people on the specials.

The only people behind me were the Quad class (Araf) and a trials outfit. The weather put paid to the start of the first special. which was moved after the sighting lap. On the sighting lap I gave it my best to gague anu dodgy corners to make a mental note of and found myself in the unfamiliar territory of passing people. Most odd. Dodgy corners duly noted we proceeded to negotiate an interesting downhill section through a recently cleared area and then on to fireroads. I used to hate fire roads, but was beginning to enjoy them. My elderly KDX now sporting decent brakes made the experience much more fun and I surprised myself how hard I could brake when I had to. I was under the impression (as was Marianne) that Shaley Hill was to be an observed section and so I arrived suitably prepared to find no observers. Having screwed this obstacle up several times in the past, I was determined to get it right. Hit the bottom in second and nailed it, a bit of clutch slip round the sha rp corner and even managed to hook 3rd on the next bit. Nothing like as quick as some I am sure, but for me that was as near text book as I can dream of.

Mosr fire road and then back off road and on a really slimey bit that they had to abandon on the Sunday I discovered the observed trials section. Oh joy. My first off of the day! That'll be a five then. Then on to the second observed section a 100 m later and this time I acquired another 5 with by second off, this time a graceful pirouet over the bars, which had Bob Mullins in stiches. He nearly awarded me extra marks for my stylish dismount.

Pissed off that I had come off I headed back on to some fireroads and then on to a section tahat had been used as a special last year. Potentially really quick but with a few riders including a lady in front of me I patiently waited line astern for the slower riders to pick their was through the limpy bits. Not so the chap who caught me up and decided that I was riding too slowly and filled me in for my trouble. Next on to "The Loop". I had got past the slower riders and was really getting into this section when I caught up a pair of old BMWs (no not Blez) pottering along. Even if I had wanted to get past there is only one line here so I had to wait until back on the fire roads. On to the 2nd special and this was quick. Very snotty under tyre to begin with which caused a few moments and then flat out in a straight line. Looking out for dodgy bits to remember, I made a mental note of nearly overcooking a devious left hander before finishing my first lap. Afar and I were re-fu eling together and his Suzuki sounded very rough when he set off, popping and banging. I was not very surprised to find him 100 yds or should it be 100 Llath up the road. Hope you got fixed mate.

First special went wellish though I didn't hit any really high speeds as too many corners and not really enough confidence. The observed section this time were being manned by a very cold Ant and I T-B so I did my bit to warm them up by letting them drag my bike out of the gorse where it decided it was goign to go as I refused to put my feet down. It certainly cheered them up. The second observed bit I actually only dabbed 3 times hurrah!! I was riding on my own mostly so no mud on goggles and no holdups. Brill. The non fireroad bits were fantastic. And to the second special. I probably went quicker on the sighting lap as I just did not hook up and was slightly bemused by the sight of marshalls about 50 m off the course down a bank on the deceptive corner I had noted on the sighting lap. Subsequently I found this to be a chap called Elvis who was due to go to Libya with one of my pals this week. I understand a broken wrist and other injuries were suffered, so I guess he won 't be going to Libya. I hope you get well soon.

The social that vening seemed a bit lacking in numbers which was a shame. Poor Colin Walford has been up since the crack of dawn remarking the course after the storm the night before and so did not make it being utterly worn out. I did feel for you mate.

Day 2

Woke up to a blizzard. Got to the start to find a concerned Marianne. Briefly the weather cleared up but after the end of my sighting lap Marianne asked me to tell the time keepers that the 3 laps were being cut to 2. The first special was brill. Really found this good. Kept the KDX buzzing to keep it in the power band and I really felt that I hooked up well. I will be disappointed if my time was in the really slow category. Carried on clearing the snow from my goggles as I went. The rest of the lap was uneventful but fatigue was setting in. I made aright hash of the second stage. In first gear the rear wheel spinns like hell on a loose slope but second seems to tall despite much slipping. Anyway I managed to stall it 3 times so was really pissed off. The power seems to come in with a bang now, which was part of the problem, so I think a bit of powervalve maintennance may be called for.

Anyway great event, really enjoyed myself. A big should to Marianne and Colin for yet again going superhuman things to put the event on. A special thanks also to the 8 marshalls from our Northants TRF which was Patrick's branch. Especially Kate and David who on Sunday were perched halfway up a hill in severe foul weather to handle the start of the second special.

Dunney KDX200 and next year on a BSA B44 (there's madness!)

Well, they all looked us a bit strangely and the comments ranged from "Nice to see them riding those" to "You must be a hero or a fool" The later proved right. John Adams & I decided in our wisdom to ride our BMW boxers in this event, mine being a 1000cc 225 Kgs of large lump. Added to this it was my first event of this kind ever and I have to admit it was great. I didn't make too big a prat of myself and apologise here & now to all those who were held up negotiating the mobile chicane wobbling all over the countryside in everybody's way, no one abused me and everyone was so friendly, perhaps they thought I really had been let out for the weekend. A busted 1st gear curtailed my enthusiasm for the climbs and resulted in only 3 laps but hey I'll be back next year on something a little easier to pick up, promise. Thanks to the organisers, Marshals (for understanding what it would take out of them if I got stuck & offered easy outs) and my riding companion John. Cold, Wet but happy. Reg Moule No 71

I am not normally a 'write up' kinda guy but as Patricks assistant on the winter rally a few years ago really sticks in my mind so I thought I would write a report. Well it certainly was a long weekend for the Oxford guys/girls. We set of early on Saturday in two vans (one hire van as our trusty old 310 Merc has now finally had to be laid to rest). So the team consisted of the following

Myself Tamsin Jones (8 stitches from the snow run still in here left hand) Geoff Cain Doug Cain (First event 5th time on his bike) Nick Stanley Elvis Steve Harper (Our northern connection) Austin Powers (Tamsins mental springer spaniel)

We took a very special route to the start that envolved missing the left after the roundabout in llanidloes and quite a long drive through about 45 mins of welsh countryside.

This detour resulted in a slight late arrival to the start so we had a 'how many can get changed in the back of a LWB VW LT' competition. Somehow Elvis seemed to win this and was gone with his bike before I even had my cycling shorts on. (Which was a shame because he missed quite a display in a confined space).

We eventually were all signed on and went from rushing to standing around in the rain very quickly. Elvis was on a much earlier number than us so he was away first, the rest of us rode togther for a while at least. We soon hit the queue for the first test and Doug had his first taste of the welsh mud paddling up the first climb. The rest of the first lap was fine, a few small queues and a couple of good falls from Doug. When we came back for fuel after the first lap Doug had had enough for the day so me and Tamsin set off for the second lap to catch the rest of our group who had gone on ahead after the second group of sections.

We all regrouped at the first test on the second lap, the start of the test had been moved to eliminate the sticky climb (I bet the guys on the big bikes were happy). The test went well for everyone, the sections were good and we all made some stupid mistakes on what should have been easy sections. (Well done Diamonds for including the sections it made things interesting and broke up the lap nicely).

By the time we were at the second test it was hailing hard again but Marrianne and here daughter were still smiling. As we rode the second test none of us noticed the yellow Gas Gas which was lent against the pile of wood on the long left hand corner (more about that later).

Anyway we finished off the lap went back to the vans, changed and loaded but something seemed not quite right. There was more room in the van and a spare strap that we had defiantly used before. Doug also did not seem his happy self and was mumbling something about the ducking fog. Austin seemed quite happy with the big chunk of skin he had bitten from Dougs hand.

The spare strap was for Elvis's bike. He had started well before us and was not back yet, something seemed a little strange. Sure enough Elvis had taken a little excursion on the second special and his bike was resting against the pile of logs like a grave stone to mark the place he had taken a couple of hundered meter detour into the undergrowth. (Thanks Colin for your efforts to remove his bike).

So me and geoff did a little rallying in our hire van to collect the bike whilst the rest of the team retired to the B and B. On our arrival at the B and B Elvis's misfortune was Tamsins good luck, as we had only booked 6 beds for 7 people, so being sure he would be spending a night in hospital we did the right thing and Tamsin took his space in the B and B.

Our plan was now to get a quick curry from the Bengal Bistro before getting to the social to eat our way through the food there. However 2 hours later we were still waiting for our curry. As we finished off our curry we finally managed to locate Elvis he was in Shewsbury hospital and they had no bed for him. So instead of an evening of talking crap about the days riding, me and Geoff set off to Shewsbury to pick him up.

The 50 minute trip from Llanidloes to Shrewsbury was interesting to say the least, it would have taken a lot longer if we weren't in a hire van. Elvis looked very fetching in his Camo waterproofs and his hospital smock. But my attentions were soon drawn to his head it looked like they had tried to make him swallow a football and his wrist was in plaster (Good job he isn't surposed to be off to libiya next week!!!)

We had to go slightly slower on the way back to Llanidloes as the patient keep whining if we braked to hard, so it was around 1.00 am when we finally got to bed. Geoff on the floor as we thought maybe Elvis should have a bed.

The morning was interesting, I explained to the Lady who ran the B and B we had brought an extra person home last night and arranged for him to stay in bed for the day which seemed to go down OK. I don't know if she was so happy when she caught geoff smuggling Austin out of the room?

On arrival at the start on Sunday it was interesting to open the back door of the van and see the state that the bikes were in. When we loaded them there were all strapped to the side of the van. Something had happened (could it have been our high speed trip to Shrewsbury) that had resulted in a pile of bikes and wet gear which took a good while to untangle and sort out. Maybe we didn't here them moving over the whines of the injured party on the way home.

Apart from the blizzard conditions the riding on Sunday was great. I really felt for all the marshals except Kev Coplestone who managed to end up sitting in his warm dry car all day whilst everyone else was getting wet and cold. (well done Kev). I would have loved a third lap but Marrianne and her team took the right decision to cancel the third lap and give everyone a chance to warm up.

Even with the early finish it was still 10.00pm before me and geoff were returning the hire van on Sunday night (It was misfiring nicely on tickover).

That's it really, Thanks to all the marshals and to Colin and Marrianne and the rest of the people who worked hard as usual to put on a good event, the sort that Patrick would have really enjoyed.

Anthony

Let me start by saying that all of the marshals and people who stood out on the hills need a huge group hug. If we thought it was a bit cold and grim ridding round, gawd knows what it must have been like for them! You are all stars.

On the other hand the ones at the "feet up" sections seemed to be nice and warm, as they generated lots of body heat by the vigorous bouts of side splitting belly laughter. Its not my cup of tea, having never done any LDT's or anything like this. I am a brute force and ignorance rider and "dabs" are part and parcel of my riding style. On the first lap i surprised myself by only taking 1 dab in 3 sections. Fantastic this is easy, or not! I kid you not, one of the marshals at the 2nd section on lap 2 had just said "why do you look so clean", when i managed a total balls up of section 2, followed by an even worse "throw myself at the deepest, muddiest bit you can find in your nice clean and loverly new Moose waterproof clothing", effort at section 3. The muddy bit at the top of the hill that was cut out on lap 2 day 2, was my only tumble on day 1 and cost whatever the maximum score is.

I thought overall the laps were a better mix than last year and included a couple of bits i cannot remember from either the PJM or Hafren. Both timed specials went fairly well on Saturday, with no balls ups, no stalls or running wide. The 2nd in particular was a laugh, as i had carried round a dry pair of gloves for this and took a tactical pee break at the start, as i waited for a good time to start. There was no-one in front or likely to be following behind, so i could get on with my own effort. The first muddy bit was great, with huge great speedway slides and where else can you hold your bike flat out in 6th for fully 10 secs on the long downhill straight. Fantastic.

Saturday night was an endurance test in its own right, as we had booked the Indian restaurant for 7pm and the cab driver had a bit of a warning that the service was the best. After 2 1/2 hours we were finally able to leave, having had to threaten to do a runner to get the bill. 3 different groups of people got so fed up waiting for their food, that they did leave and didn't bother paying for the drinks they had had. By the time we got to the social, there were only a handful of peeps left, so we had a couple of drinks and went home.

The hail seemed to batter off the windows all night and the weather did not look promising as we headed for Staylittle. The higher we climbed the harder the snow got and it was lying on the roads. We agreed that if the snow continued like that to the start time, we would spit the dummy and head for home, as the thought of snow on some of the hills over to Llanidloes, wasn't something i fancied in a fully loaded mighty LDV. Anyway, the weather fairies played a cruel trick on everyone and snow stopped and the sun came out, so we set off for the start. I think the combination of a belly full of beer/curry/cooked breaky and lack of sleep (having stayed at Snoring gits are us), pickled my brain and about 4 corners into the first un-timed special, i just lost the plot totally. Flat out into a left hander, didn't bother to brake until i turned in when it was way too late. Locked the front, let it off again, ran wide, could see a very deep drainage ditch fast approaching, could then see the fact that it had a load of big rocks in it and my brain sensibly started to work again and screamed "get off NOW you really don't want to go in there with the bike on top of you". I locked both brakes and dived off the left hand side, as the bike went down. It carried on into the ditch and i heard a decent snapping sound. I had had a soft landing, so i didn't think it was me that was broken. I dived into the ditch to find my bike parked perfectly on its nose, with the rear wheel nicely on the lip of the bank. You could not have placed it like that, but i could see the front fender was split nicely in two right up the middle. I waved my 2 riding buddies down and we were able to drag it out of the ditch, give it the quick once over and carry on.

This put us way back in the numbers and whilst we didn't push through, it did make for slow going on the hill that finished with the previous days feet up sections. The ruts had got a bit deep and some of the less experienced riders and those of shorter stature struggled a little and a long queue formed as we waited our turn. Onto the start of the 2nd special and i knew it was gonna be fun, when they had a marshal advising a line just to get to the start of the test! Now that was a blinder in my opinion, mostly uphill, muddy, bumpy, rutty stuff. Then that uphill right hander with the big slate boulder thing to slip on, before more mad, fast fire road. Fantastic! I thought that would really sort out the men from the boys and from what you said Liam, it probably did!

So back to the van and only a quick break, as we had lost time with my little off. New goggles and gloves needed as the snow had started again in ernest and you were only going a few yards before your goggles got full of snow. My roll offs did a decent job to start with, but even they started to get clogged with snow. Onto the first timed section and my brain was working by now and it went without a hitch, till the last 20 yards when i struggled to get stopped for the finish chicane and took the left hand off-road escape route! The higher we climbed the heavier the snow got and the wind was very strong. It started to lie on lots of the fireroads in the liaison and it was becoming a tad dangerous. Some of the trickier sections were cut out, which was probably right and the feet up sections had come down off the higher hills, to a tree covered patch. Managed 1 dab first time and 2 on the 2nd, as it got a bit rutty and slippy. Having watched several fall off and/or stop, i went for the get through without stopping, even with a couple of dabs approach. And so the 2nd test, which i reckoned would be were the results would come from. It had the potential to really mess your day up and a clean run would be worth having. The guy who was to start in front of me could not even get up the little climb from the start and rolled back into the control for another go. I made my excuses and generally put the starter off to give myself a bigger gap on him and it worked, as i didn't catch him in the technical bit. I had a clean run with no mistakes and hopefully that was better than some others. I was surprised not to catch the bloke in front and whilst we waited at the end for the last of our party to finish, matey shows up 5 min later. It seems he took a wrong turn and went the wrong way, so saving me the bother of passing him. But it seems he wasn't the only one to do it and our mate showed up eventually (serves him right for taking the piss out of my trials effort on day 1).

Dave M told us he thought lap 3 was off and to be honest i was kinda happy. I would have gone again, as another go through that last test would have polarised the results even more i am sure. In the end it was right, as it got very miserable up there and i really felt for the marshals and helpers. So we were home in time to clean and lube the bikes and get warmed up. I just have to go and check my rear moose, as it was very soft and spinning on the rim, before the Geraint Jones/REME training on Saturday.

Once again, Marianne and Colin, that was above and beyond the call of duty. All the marshals out on the course, take a huge pat on the back!

Colin McC

A unusually respectable departure time on Friday evening gets us down to mid Wales with no hassle. We've got the dogs in tow for a change so it's a B&B in Llangurig instead of my sister's - hope the boys don't like the taste of Terry cotton sheets or bamboo furniture. Up to Hafren bright and early on Saturday to report for duty. Scrutineering ran pretty smoothly apart from the weather - knew I should have found room in the car for the gazebo. Still, my big wax hat is nearly the same size and provides cover for several woodland creatures. Obviously people had been reading the regs for a change as Brian and I hardly failed a soul, just a couple of loose spokes and a wheel bearing, and only a couple of bikes arrived fitted with AC10s\Crossengos. There was one S12, but the bloke had a Comp 3 in his van so was able to start (wonder why he didn't fit it to start with?). Nice to see the big stuff out and the Centennial Edition Husky 510 was very tasty, though the owner had wisely swapped out the alloy tank and carbon bodywork for plastic (he rode it well too).

Katie was already out manning the end of SS1 with Chas, so after the last rider was away I climbed on her TTR (the only thing in the garage that started easily on Friday morning) and set off for a bimble round. Only got about half a mile to the bunkhouse where I found Blez and Pat Keenan who had just arrived, having gotten stuck on a closed A44 (though it wouldn't be Blez if he was on time, would it?). I gave them a cursory scrutineer at their truck as they got kitted up, then went out into the forest. Had a chat with Chas and Katie at the end of SS1, then followed Howard and Anita down the hill when they set off again. Anita stalled on the way down and was unlucky to topple off when she went to bump start the Pamp, only to find it in neutral. Still, she picked herself up and got round for a good finish. I found a stranded CRF-X at the furthest part of the forest from the pits. The rider had been stuck there for 40 minutes, unable to fix the dead engine. Luckily I had my GPS and a map on me, so I could work out the quickest and easiest way back to the pits, which turned out to be a shortcut through Geraint's farmyard.

After dropping him off at the pits I went back to SS1 in time to witness Dunney leaving the start on one wheel! Very impressive Mr Dunne, what with this and Bob M's comments I can foresee an alternative career as a stunt rider. Followed a CRF round until he waved past (I didn't really want to pass but I think I was putting him off, so I did), then went back down the hill with the intention of returning to the pits, but I saw Crash-test Ken heading for the special so I followed him and chased him through. Have to say he was riding pretty well, better than I've seen him do in a while. I got a bit close and he put a stone through one of Katie's indicator lenses, so I backed off a few yards and followed him home, meeting Araf with a sick quad, and Mark with a flat tyre on the way.

Missed the social, as Katie and I went to Bistro Hafren's Valentine's Day Special! It was very good actually, I'd recommend it if you fancy something a bit more sophisticated than the Indian (service was good too, Colin). The dogs have failed to eat the B&B whilst we were out so they can come with us to the MXdN in September.

Sunday morning, and at breakfast George Humphreys is praying for snow. He gets his wish, and how! On the road up to the forest we find Brian and Jane Lightfoot stopping the traffic as there's a tree down blocking the road. Mark, Andy and Araf arrive and Mark's about to try towing the fallen pine out of the way with his 4x4 when the farmer arrives with a chainsaw and a tree lifter (nearly takes Barry Pike out when Barry attempts to squeeze the Kermit through the remaining gap on the verge just as the JCB is about to push the tree there). Road cleared, everyone gets through and to the pits. Chas is out riding today, and Katie and I man the end of the second special. We get the good job as we get to stay in a warm car whilst the other Kate and Dave are out in the open, waving people away from the start of the test in blizzard conditions. My snow experience is limited to dashing out of the car every so often to replace the cone that gets knocked over (Mark picked it up himself, cheers, you're a gent!). Everyone turns up looking very snowy and cold, but generally not miserable. The second lap is clearly going to be the last, and Bob Room comes back to tell us that Marianne's going to cut the test as well, but Kate and Dave obviously don't get the message as people keep coming through, so we carry on timing until the course closing marshal arrives. Back to the finish to drop off the results, collect the trailer from the bunkhouse then off home for a pleasantly early finish!

Big thanks as usual to Marianne, Colin and Lucy, St Johns and all the marshals including those from Northants TRF and the Caerphilly lads. But also thanks to the competitors - you're a load of nutters! -- Dave

Another great event - enjoyed it even more than last year, trials tests were a bit different and something that I really liked.

Lining up the excuses for being beaten by Colin Mc: fell in the last test and made a pigs ear of getting the bike picked up quickly - losing a good 30 seconds. Bugger!

Snow was an unexpected feature of day 2, cold, poor visibility, and some of the tracks were getting very slippery at speed, so I think the organisers made a good call on pulling the last lap.

Marianne, Colin, and the countless hoards of happy (cold, wet) helpers (Brian, Ian T-B, Katie, Dave to name but a few) top notch stuff. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Liam

The off-road virgins tale: After being persuaded by Araf and loads of you on here to enter the day finally arrived. I'd travelled down on the Friday night with my mate Andrew, it was only as we entered Wales that he discovered that his official title for the weekend was 'pit gimp'....haha. Met up with Ian Booth, Dave, Gary, Chris and Alf at our hotel and got stuck into great steak and some beers, the banter flowed and stories of daring do were retold. I'm sure the others had heard them all before but it was all new to me. One thing I did notice was that unlike the road bike track day boys there was very little out and out one-upmanship and 'fastest round the bar' characters, a pleasent change. Saturday dawned and after a full english we headed off. I got signed on and got my kit on, fueled up headed to the start. I was in front of Araf on his Quad and the loons on the sidecar. Had a little chat with Steve Dunne as he was the next number to me and before I knew it we were ready to be flagged off. I'd been told this rally was easy, then I got to the first clay hill, 'Christ on a bike' I thought, the hillside was awash with bikes, bodies, trees, mud and marshalls. I gritted my teeth and headed on up, fully expecting to be back down the bottom pretty quick. Then I discovered how good decent off-road rubber is, whilst my progress compared to some was slow I couldn't believe how the bike just dug in. I took a breather at the top while the log jam was cleared and chatted to some of the other riders, some off the list I discovered. I then headed off behind the others and tried to remember some of the course. After some good bits of fire road I got to another gaggle of riders waiting at the bottom of what turned out to be Shaley Hill. I got stuck behind a stalled marshall and subsequently stalled myself, the first of many on this attempt. I eventaully made it to the top and saw the vertical rock slab (well it looked vertical to my untrained eye!), 'head for the right and give it some' was the advice I received from a very helpful lady rider as she waltzed over it, so I did, the bike went up and to the right and shot over the top pitching me off to the left, right onto my knee. 'Bu**er that feckin hurt' thought I, still had now had my first off. The then headed down and along some more fire roads etc and realised that trying to remember all of this was going to be a bit of a task so resigned myself to remembering anything that was really dodgy for me. The next collection of bikes were then waiting for the trials section and again I had a quick natter with a few riders and also proceeded to cover some poor guys on XR's with roost as we moved up the hill, sorry guys. Although I failed or didn't even attempt to keep my feet up on the trials section I managed to get through easily and was beginning to get used to riding in the rutty stuff. The light was going by this time and as I got back to the start area I saw Ian Araf with his stricken quad, turned out Alf had also had a big problem and was pushing back in, I think he was the only guy I passed all weekend....hehe. We all got cleaned up as best we could and headed back to the Hotlel for a well earned bath, food and more beer. Liam and some of the others staying down the road came over and had a meal at ours and then joined us for beers etc.

Woke up to bright sunshine in the morning, if a mite windy, then in the time it took to eat my full english the hills had gone from verdent green to marshmallow white, 'Oh my God, are we expected to ride in this'....'yes'....'S**t' Off we set and the weather waxed and waned between snow and sun, me hoping the sun would win the day. Near the start area we cam across a collection of car and vans, waiting in the road due to a tree having fallen right across the main road. A digger arrived and all was soon restored to normal and we made out way to the pit area again.

My plan for the day was to try and relax a lot more as I'd suffered complete arm pump on my second lap the day before and also to try and just see ii I could learn a bit more technique by watching other riders as they tackled the route. Away from the start and was soon behind a couple of other riders, I found the first fire road really slippery, maybe cold tyres or just because it was so cold, I think the lady rider in front of me also had a few moments on this part as she seemed to run wide a few times. Made the by now usual feeble attempt at the sections including a full off in the very small section manned by Bob Mullins, much to everyone amusment. The snow was getting to be a big problem for me by now as I couldn't get it off my googles and couldn't ride with my goggles off. I decided that this lap would be it as I wasn't experienced enough and would have a big off if I continued. I chilled out and just rode back at my own pace, passed by some very quick boys on their second laps. finally got to the last gloopy section before the end and was totally knackered by now having help a few riders who were stuck or just worn out. Those Beemers are HEAVY when they get stuck! I made a few vain attempts to ride stood up through this section but the old legs wouldn't have it and my confidence isn't there yet. A beemer rider came passed and shouted to me to try standing up, presumably to make it easier, he promptly 'offed' at the next corner! The end was in sight and very welcome, I was even happier when I was told that the course had been closed for safety reasons. I then discovered that Andrew the 'pit gimp' had got his own back, him and Alf had legged it to the pub for a full on Sunday roast and left the both vans locked (or so we thought). When they returned we got cleaned up, packed

the kit and bikes away and headed off for the sunnier climes of England.

I had a GREAT time and would like to thank everyone involved and everyone I met. I'll see you all again on another rally and promise I'll wear the crossed arrows on my back next time!

set the alarm for early and then woke even earlier so was loaded and away well before 6 (could it be eagerness having not ridden since the hafren). A steady drive and empty roads meant arriving at staylittle just before 10. A few marshalls milling around and only a couple of vehicles parked up meant a prime parking slot. Wandered down to the start area and started chatting. What is nice is so many of the faces are familiar. eventually decided to sign on and get scutineered, not that there was any rush as i wasnt away till 1.30ish. The weather was undiceded in what it wanted to do, bits of sun, heavy rain, hail stones, sleet, a pattern that was continued through the day. Heavy rain over the last couple of days saw the rivers near bursting and lots of standing water. Looked like it was going to be wet. New boots proved absolutely useless at keeping water out so was glad of the army gortex socks, these proved infinately better than the seal skinz i tried on day 2.

There was a real mix of bikes as the start approached with quite a few larger bikes around and araf on the quad, as well as a neat looking chair.

On time off we went, right out of the start little bit of road then firetrack then a little muddy climb. There had obviously been problems with this as the marshall at the bottm directed us into the woods at the side. Well what an adventure, trying to find a route up the hill through the trees. At one point saw a bit of open and a little mound so hopped the pamp over that only to completely loose the back wheel. turning round saw it had dropped in a badger hole, sorry mr badger. lifted wheel out of hole and continued through the undergrowth to join the queue for the first timed stage (which was just a sighter this lap). This was a little bit of muddy track followed by fireroad which was relatively straight forward. Sticking to the bits where water was flowing meant plenty of grip even if a bit wet. after this there was a mix of fireroad and the odd bit of off road, before coming to a bit used i think on the hafren for a special test. this was where the first of the feet up bits was. Marked from the off meant i had to try and remember how to stay on the pegs. It was up a little gully with the odd step and root then onto a more level bit round a corner and then continue over some cut branches to the end of section. Once up and on the pegs the little pamp did the work without any fuss, bloody good bike shame about the pilot!! Once through this it was on through varied terrain, including the shale climb and my favourite bit the single track loop,

I cant help grinning when doing that bit. The next feet up sections were on a muddy track one following the other. the first was fairly staight forward the second involved a little hollow followed by a turn which if you kept a tight line provided pleanty of grip. Having cleaned the sections so far it was only fair when it came to the final timed section which was going to be very fast with plenty of open straight sections. There was no way the pamp would keep with the bigger bikes on this given the pamp will do around 55, and true enough bikes were coming in having registered sppeds of 85. On the second lap i managed to cock up one of the feet up sections and would get a three, my fault as i didnt get on the pegs at the start. and when it came to the second timed section i was flat out when a ktm 950 and 525 came passed as if i were stationary. Back to the pits and everyone i spoke to seemed to have had a good time, and due to the wet the bike wasnt that dirty. Off for and evening of chat and decent nights kip ready for the next day... Day 2 and sat at breakfast looking out over the hills and chatting once again, the sky darkened and snow arrived giving the tops of the hills a light dusting. breakfast disposed of it was back up to staylittle and the fisrt adventure of the day. A tree down on the main road and then more snow. Backtracking to the backroad meant an interesting drive round the scenic way as the snow came down more and more. Eventually getting to the start managed to get a good parking place as everyone seemed to be having fun getting in. It was touch and go for a while as we waited for the ambulance to get through, and once the tree was moved others came in in droves. Time to get ready, pulling on the damp boots from the day before highlighted the seal skins lack of water resisitance as i felt that damp feeling on my toes. Once on the go all feeling of cold disappeared as we pootled round the course in the reverse direction to the day before,

starting with the very fast speed section. got to the bit where yesterday there was the feet up sections and there was all sorts of problems. I was impressed with Blez on the muddy track but when it turned up hill his big beemer managed to stop part way up. As there were plenty of marshalls i just carried on around and then joined a queue where a little rut seemed to be causing quite a block. An 800 got well and truly stuck so along with another guy went to help lift it out of the rut. Good thing about the rut was didnt need the side stand as the bike remained vertical held by the sides of the rut. Once free i think all the bikes were then re routed back down. However the guy on the ktm who had so kindly helped extricate the bm then roosted all the rest of us as he carried on..Nice. Snow started fall pretty much all the time now making riding intersting as one hand was in constant use clearing the goggles. The second special was very entertaining as it looked like a new track zigzagging up the side of a hill, good fun this bit, especially as you got to the top and launched into space, followed by a bit of fireroad. The feet up section this time was over a root around a tree avoiding a stump and then back across a little ditch. It was the innocious little ditch that caused a dab when being observed on the next lap... must concentrate. Coming in from the first lap i followed the chair down the muddy track near the finish. Those guys really have to work for every inch travelled with the passenger jumping around all over getting weight over the driven wheel and then trying to stop the thing toppling. Mind you I wouldnt reccomend following a chair regularly as you get plastered. On the second lap the snow was coming down consistently making even the speed sections interesting as you tried to keep the goggles clear and the throttle open. Guess the speeds were down for everyone as for once i didnt get overtaken. Eventually finished the second lap having hardly seen anyone at all, probably down to the poor visability. Quick burger at the end Where ITB was just tucking into seconds and then decided to get off. On the way out saw Anita who was every so happy to have managed the feet up bit when not observed with only two dabs.

It was an excellent event and I really appreciate all the helpers who stood out in the forest in such tough conditions to allow us competitors to have such a good time. Without these people chipping in all conditions we wouldnt have competition. Final thanks to Marriane and Colin for providing such an event with bits for all, it was great.

George

2005 Snowrun

Hi Bob.. Just a quick note to thank all the organisers for the hard work that must go into an event like the Snowrun, It is much appreciated by such mortals as myself. Great course, well chosen mix of tracks, and a good test. I just don't know how you managed to get the perfect weather as well ?? I also think a thought and thanks should go to Kurt Luby from Bolton (rider 128) who as you mentioned in your report stopped to help an injured rider.. Lets hope he's O.K.. Its good to know that there are some good guys still out there !! Thanks all.. Will Jones ..# 122....

Bob Please can you pass on the thanks of all the riders from Newcastle Emlyn, we all thought you laid on a great event with a fantastic course and more toilets than an incontinent veteran could possibly wish for. Regards Gerry Jones

Hi Bob, Even though I had my own saga of nearly as epic proportions as Deans I thoroughly enjoyed the event. I'm probably not qualified to comment, with less that twelve months experience, but I found the course absolutely superb. There was an excellent variation of all the challenging terrain I would expect to find in an Enduro. This was well mixed with the occasional breather, which was just as well for me as my lack of fitness meant that on the second lap I was really feeling it. My hats off to all those who did five laps of the course, and four, and three for that matter. All in all I think the organisers judged the class distances very well, I heard no complaints only praise. Also, the event was expertly organised, unlike me. Jake

Hi from Geogia in the good old USof A. we are having a great time here and dine a bit of off roading and spectating. We enjoyed the racing at an AMA MX championship where we met up with RC, Bubba and all the other BIG names in USA MX. It is great to be able to keep up to date with all the news back home vias your fantastic web site. We are hoping to go to Las Vegas to see the Endrocross and hope to be able to congratulate Knighter and Eddy on their great WEC results. Say Hi to everyone for us-oh by the way it is 25deg,warm and sunny as we sit by the ocean here to watch the sunset! regards Dot and Jim Jones

Qatar Report by Ian Booth

I keep having to pinch myself. I'm back. What a week. I've looked through the photo's, a selection of which are on the site, and if nothing else, they have shown me that I have been very lucky to race with some very talented people from the world of desert raiding. I keep starting to write this, and then erasing bits, as I've gone off topic, mentioned something out of chronological order, or detailed bits of no interest what so ever. I eventually decided that you can decide what you read, and what you skip.

Firstly, my thanks must go to all those who helped me, including Peter Millis, who helped with air filters. I must confess that they are not all used Pete, so if you have anyone who asks for one, send me an e-mail and I will post some back. No wrapper, but oiled and bagged.

It all started on Monday. I was bricking myself. Not from the challenge of the race, but because I hate flying - in addition to hating heat, and riding in sand. People at work were reminding me how stupid I was, and so the nerves set in. I posted on here, and did read most of your replies, so thanks for that.

Tuesday, and myself and David Bevan who lives in my village made our way to Heathrow. More about him later. Duly checked in, we boarded. Saw Kevin Coplestone (more of him later as well) and reminded him that Tom Beckett had introduced us at the Hafren a couple of weeks previously. After a mix up over a family sitting in our seats, we were separated until we had taken off. In the air, and I moved to a seat next to David, and another chap called Alex. Asked him what he was doing in Qatar, to which the reply was "same as you probably." Talked bikes, Hafren, journalism, and then it clicked that I was with Alex Hearne, ex Superbike mag, and TWO editor (he's back there again now). Flight over, and we were met at the airport by one of the Desert Rose Team, who were helping us there. At the hotel, (Doha Ramada) we soon found out that the bikes had not arrived. I later learnt that a vessel had sunk in the Suez Canal, and our bikes were on a vessel behind. Typically, the Germans' vessel was in front, so they had their quads already. Up to the bar, and ready for bed , only to find that another team member, Tamsin, was already in my bed. What a friendly bunch. After a bit of chasing about at 3 in the morning, I ended up on the floor in David's room.

Wednesday (it's getting difficult for me to remember the days of the week already) and we were told that the container was snagged with Customs, but we should get the goods by midday, which was then 2pm. At 4pm, we made our way to the GP circuit, to meet the container, which was en route there for devanning. We arrived, it had not. Finally the container of bikes arrived at 6.30, was craned off the vehicle, and we started unloading at 7. We were supposed to going to a party, thrown in our honour by some ex-pats, but we had plenty of work to do on the bikes, so sent word that we could not attend. Word had got round that David had not ridden in the dirt for 20 years, when he previously did a bit of motocross at clubman level. People checked his story with me, and I confirmed that I believed it to be so, as he had only ridden his XR400 up and down his drive since he got it. The quad was virtually ready, all I had to do was put a new air filter in, stocking over the air intake, and make sure the battery was okay, which it was. I started helping others with their bikes, until we all called it a day at 12.30 and went back to the hotel for the night. I got my bed that night, so had a good kip, until 7. Others looked at the quad, and due to the food container lid that I was using as a front number board nicknamed it 'The Tupperware Torpedo.'

Thursday, after breakfast, and back to the track to finish the bikes. Some had more to do, and so were back there at 6.30! All assembled, it was time to take the bikes to Doha, for signing on and scruteneering, with a bit of desert riding beside the road on the way to familiarise ourselves with riding on sand. I decided to do a lap of the track first (flat out all the way round), and noticed that the quad wasn't running right, so missed the sand, heading up the road instead. Signed on, and with an hour or so before scruteneering, I decided to investigate the problem. First thing changed was the air filter (sorry Pete) and the old filter did no better. I ripped the stocking off the intake snorkel, and all was well, so the Uni-Filter was re-installed, though I didn't have time to check it was okay, opting to take the old standard filter to the prologue track in a bag. I was starting to natter with some of the other quad riders, 400's 450's and 660's. I'm on a 250, and so expect to get filled in good and proper. Picked up the road book, and took it to my room for familiarisation.

Friday, and time for the prologue. Everyone leaves Rally HQ on their allotted time (the first time so far that something has been done on time), and I overtake a few on the liaison. One quad pulls off the road (this is easy) and by the time we get to the prologue area, others (the Arabs) are low on petrol because they didn't fill up. On to my allotted minute, and time to start. The bikes had already gone through, so most riders were watching. Afterwards it was pointed out that most others flew off the line, but Araf lived up to his name, and crawled away as fast as the tortured quad would take him. The prologue was marked with arrows, so I didn't use the road book for this bit. Just like riding Welsh fire-breaks, I was in my element. This was the first time I had raced this quad, and I was happy with the way it was handling. No soft sand, but plenty of gravel and dust. Soon it was over, only one passed me (30 seconds apart), which was a 660 Raptor, so I was quite chuffed. Checked my time with some of the bikes, and the quads were slightly faster. Not surprising, as the surface was loose and the course tight. David had beaten me by a couple of seconds, but I had beaten a German by 10 seconds, so was happy with that. We were ready to return to the hotel, when one of the Arabs, from Dubai asked if we wanted to go back with them, as they were not going to follow the road book, but ride along the sea front. With the opportunity of riding more sand, a group of us agreed. On the road towards Doha, it dawned on me that we might not be riding much sand on this leg. One Arab wheelied his quad for the best part of a mile on the dual carriageway, even managing to change direction slightly, which I haven't worked out how he managed it yet. Unfortunately, riding the sand was not what they meant, and we actually took part in a Chelsea style Cruise past plenty of Qataris, enjoying themselves on the seafront. The locals lapped it up, with lots of waving and sounding of horns. Some drives helped with the impromptu convoy, stopping traffic on roundabouts for us to pass. Back at Parc Ferme, and everyone agreed, that it was the best part so far. Out for dinner, back to the hotel, and pick up our road books for the big day. Matt Baker did his crust. The road book was about 3 inches in diameter. He took his to the bar, and rolled it out. 19 metres long, with the main navigation being 440 tulip diagrams. I took mine to my room, and 3 hours later I had chopped it into 5 pieces (outward liaison, 3 for the desert navigation and liaison back) and labelled them for the morning, again getting to bed after midnight. Saturday, and the cars start times were from 5am. Mine was 6.37, so I had a lay in and breakfast. Off on the liaison, no problem, though considering it was all road, my quad took an hour to do the 70kms. Time was going to be tight in the sand. I was the fourth from last away. Some had already messed up on their timings into service etc, so it looked like I would pick up more places and walk it. My start time came, and off I went. Within a couple of hundred yards, I was into soft dune sand, with the quad needing first gear before I reached the top, but I made it up, so was happy with the machine. Off over a plateau, which looked like an old lake bed, thinks were going well, then I took a wrong turn. The Germans were all behind me, but stopped following when I veered onto a different route. I was right, finding the first checkpoint. Checking the roadbook, and adjusting the Ico, a couple of kms later, my GPS stopped working. I was warned that GPS units don't like running on batteries as they get shook around, but this was too late for me to get a mains lead for the unit, so I had to pray. The prayer didn't work, so bearings became guess work, though these were sparse in the roadbook, so I followed the terrain and tyre marks, though there were plenty in different directions, so you had to guess in some places. Some rocky tracks were quite bad, and off track the rocks were so sharp that they would cut straight through a tyre, so care needed to be taken, but with a roadbook showing a new direction every 500 metres, I had to have the quad nailed in top all the time. With a top speed of only 80kph, and an average of 50kph required, time was tight. At about 45kms, I lost the route. I didn't know if I was off to the left, or right, so started to work the terrain in a flower pattern, looking for signs of vehicles passing. Unfortunately, it seemed that others had the same problem here, as there were tyre marks in all directions. I kept returning to my last good position, but even this I was not sure of. There should have been a check point within a 5km radius of where I was, but where was that? I had noticed that they had been positioned in natural dips in the landscape, so I couldn't just look for it. I went up a large dune, looked all round, but only saw sand. Over 45 minutes of this passed, and with the slow speed I was doing whilst searching I was getting hot. It had now taken me just over 2 hour, and I was back to only 40 kms in. Petrol was going to be tight to the first fuel stop with only 10 litres on board, and not knowing what the quad would do on a tank only added to the anxiety of the situation. Calculating that I didn't have enough to the fuel dump, I decided that I would have to retire, rather than run out of fuel in the desert. I went to the largest and most worn track that I could find, and headed off in the direction of Doha by my reckoning, with the sun on my back. I found a pipe line, which had a track next to it, and decided to follow this. It was heading towards an oil complex which must have been at least 5kms wide. Before I got to it, I came upon a road and took a left, to again take me towards civilisation. I came across some roadworks, which I recognised from the trip in during the morning, so did a U turn, and headed for Parc Ferme to retire. It was a relief, knowing where I was. I was told to make the last check, and the flying finish, which gave me a finish, though I would be excluded from the results for cutting the course. I drew into pf, first quad, and only two bikes back. Kicking myself for messing up, I was relieved to be back. This lasted about half an hour, after which I started on the downward spiral of depression at having failed on the 'easiest part,' as I had dismissed the navigation as being of little consequence during my mental preparation. The feeling of failure got worse as time went on, as it dawned on me that others were not dropping out. I heard that one of the KTM's had boiled up at 50kms, and blown a head gasket, but that was mechanical failure, and not riders inability. Gradually the Brits started to arrive. Congratulating me on being back, I had to put them right. David arrived with a punctured front tyre and half the spokes broken in his front wheel. He had punctured about a third of the way in, but his time was good though. When the inner tube was removed, it was found that the nipples had unwound from the spokes - a warning to you all. Kevin Coplestone was not so lucky, having his front wheel collapse whist in 5th position. Our last riders back were Tamsin and Mel, who took over 8 hours to complete the course. Tamsin had a flat battery (KTM) and was stuck in gear, but still managed a finish. Everything was being packed up, when it was noticed that Kevin had still not been recovered. Clive Dredge checked with race control, who had not been informed by the Clerk of the Course that a bike was missing. A vehicle was dispatched to get him. Next came the liaison to the official finish in Doha. 70kms of road. I was one of the last to leave, in accordance with my start time, so it was already dark by the time I headed up the road to Doha. 20kms up the road, I got stopped by a local in a Nissan Patrol. He told me he knew a shortcut, but being that I was riding alone, I told him I must stay on the route provided. He decided to escort me, and when I didn't follow him at the next roundabout, he stopped me again. This was starting to get scary, but I kept to the road I was supposed to, and by the time we got the outskirts of Doha, I realised that, like the majority of the population, this chap was being exceptionally helpful, and was not intent on nicking my quad and having a little fat white man as his sex slave. :o) The traffic started to get heavy, and the quad started running rough and cutting out rather than ticking over in the traffic. I turned the tickover up, but this didn't help much. I left the quad in Parc Ferme, after the podium ceremony, and went back to the hotel to get ready for the results. Word started to circulate that there were very few finishers. 11 bikes, 4 quads, and a few cars only, out of a starting line up of 68 vehicles I later found out when I went to the office and got the results hot off the press. It made me feel no better. Worse was to come. David had finished, and according to the results was 10th oa in the bike class, and had won the 400cc class - after 20 years of not riding off-road. Just to give you an idea of the organisation, the FIA/M stewards had to suggest to the Clerk of the Course that he should request that the Stewards (under racing protocol) increase the timing for the event, so that the number of finishers would increase. This was done, so that 27 of the 33 bikes finished. On to the Gala Dinner, and award ceremony. In line with the laid back approach that David had taken throughout the week, he was absent, so Tim Walker had to pretend to be him and collect his award. David appeared a few minutes later - he had fallen asleep on his bed. After dinner, off to the bar for some celebration/consolation drinks. Kevin arrived. Whilst we had been feeling sorry for him, stuck in the middle of no where, it seems that some locals had come across him, and made a cup of tea for him before they had to leave for the day. His isolation didn't last long, as others arrived, pitching their tent for the night, offering hospitality in the form of whisky and hashish.

Epilogue - sorry, we're nearly there now.

As I've already said in this post, thanks to Pete Millis, and in previous posts thanks went to my other suppliers. I would also like to thank Clive Dredge and Team Desert Rose for making it happen for so many Brits.

If anyone knows the following riders, please send them my regards. I could not have wished for a better bunch, and I'm sure they would agree with that apart from the little fat bloke on the quad spoiling their bike party. I have suggested that some start using this forum, and do some of the events in Wales, and with CHEC.

Kevin Coplestone CCM 404 - laid back vet of the desert. Peter Hoskins - doesn't ride as he doesn't know anyone in his area (Thetford) Paul Howard - good finish on a 525, 6th overall Jeff Webster - 7th Overall on KTM450 Clive Town - Dakar riding partner of Patsy Quick. More interested that she survived for the Dakar than riding to his potential. VERY good source of info about desert racing - Looks like Dave Angel/Inspector Monkfish from the Fast Show. Andy Jenkins - YZ250, hosed down from Weston and chucked in the container. Unfortunately it would not start on Saturday morning, so he missed the main race. David Harding - Welshman who also did the Weston rather than preparing his bike. Creditable second in class and 14th oa. Mick Tomkinson - 13th overall on a KTM450 Andrew Neri - 11th oa and 2nd in class on a CRF250X. Alex Hearne - 8th oa on one of KTM's 640's. It was suggested that his front number be put on his bash plate, as in true journo style, he did his best to stop the wear on his front tyre. He did manage to crash with Patsy in miles of open desert. Patsy Quick - First ride after breaking her wrist at the Natterjack. Being that her works bike is also owned by KTM, I'd love to be a fly on the wall when they are told. Anthony Murray - UK based South African, nicknames Krugger by Dave Bevan. 5th oa, first in class and first 'Brit' home on a KDX220 Tim Walker - Sorted out Dave Bevan's spokes with gaffer tape, 17th oa, and always first to the bar. David Bevan - 10th oa. New bike, new kit, few spares. Very lucky, but a typical Welsh Nutter. George Gordon - Room mate. 16th oa, 3rd in class. Quiet and unassuming bloke. Runs a Bosch Centre in Preston Liam, pop in for me will you? Tony Brooks - Arrived late, after finally finding his passport. Luckily his bike was already prepped. Unfortunately missed out on a finish. Mel Glass - Wearing road gear (including lid) in the desert! Helped Tamsin limp home, and got a very well deserved 27th oa on Patsy's 250 Racing that he borrowed. Rupert Shaw - CRF250, home in 23rd place. I think it was his CRF which was geared for 55mph. Tasmin Jones - Face set in a permanent grin after the race. 25th= oa Liz Millet - Solid 22nd oa on a 250 racing Daren Martin - DNF with a blown head gasket. KTM450 Matt Baker - 25th oa on an XR4, which only sparked into life if he swore at it. Big paddy when he saw the size of the road book.

All were top blokes - even the girls. Those that were old hands imparted information a plenty. Most were newbies to the desert - some to events.

Roll on next year. I'm already planning my campaign.

Final note. The track I took to the pipeline, looks like it was running parallel to the course, and I could have re-joined at the pipe. I only realised this when I looked at the map when I was home last night. I'll have to wait for my roadbook to confirm, but if this is the case, then I will be kicking myself.

Araf of Arabia - King of the dessert (No, I haven't spelt it wrong)

Cambrian 2004

Katie and I were put off by a number of things. Firstly that it was originally reported that two-strokes were banned. Then the change to a format we hadn't done before, clearly aimed at big trailies, not my little 125 stroker. Finally there was no one-day option and we didn't want to do both (plus two days meant that it was flippin' pricey). I appreciate what the WTRA was trying to do (a rally-raid) and glad to hear that everyone enjoyed it, but it wasn't for us. We went to marshal at Weston instead. -- Dave

Hi Bob

Can you please pass on my thanks to everyone who helped to put on this weekends event, absolutely brilliant! Although initially worried about using a road book for the first time this proved to be quite straight forward and eventually I got the hang of winding on the route, checking the speedo trip, riding the bike and enjoying the views all at the same time, now if I can just stay on the track as well I'll have it sorted! After a couple of years when the event has seemed quite easy this years change of route and format seemed great, a more interesting course and the road book seemed to slow down the liaison sections to sensible speeds, roll on next years event! Many thanks

Martin (91)

Bob,

Just a quick note to you and the rest of the WTRA gang - a big thank you for all your efforts, a great weekend dispite the awfull rainy start.

Thougoughly enjoyed the weekend and I'm sorry I had to dash off early after the finish. Definitely be back next year.

Look forward to the results. Will these be posted on the web?

Cheers, Rick Attwater.

Ps. Do you know if anyone around the town found a large Green Kit Bag on Sunday afternoon - fell out the back of my Land Rover as we set off home, probably somewhere along the first mile or two from the Rugby Club!

Well, shit weather or what, I'd been studying the weather forecast all week and on Thursday there was a glimpse of hope the the weekend would be sunny and fine in Llandovery (it's true believe it or not), it was not to be.

However, we are running ahead of ourselves. Friday was spent in the usual panic attaching tools, tow straps, on to the 'Fant and more to the point, attaching two spare inner tubes in a bag to the rear rack, so I could lighten the load I was carrying in my rucksack. All this despite the bike being essentially ready and prepped. So it was up at 5.30 to attach the trailer to the car and scoot off down the Motorway. Despite the M42 being closed at junction 1 (so, a bit of a detour involving some country lanes), I managed to arrive at the Rugby Club, Llandovery, where scrutineering was taking place, in good time.

Great, unloaded the bike, rode round to the scrutineering queque, engine off, whip my leg over the saddle to dismount, catch it on the large bag zip tied to the rack, and that's it, down the bike goes with resounding crash. Bugger, nice start.

Despite this astonishing display of incompetance, the bike passes and I wheel it back to meet up with John Monger, who is also competing on his E900.

20 minutes later our start time clicks up, we are zip out of the car park exit gates.

It was only 7 1/2 miles to the start of the first off road liason, so it was pretty easy to find it using the road book. Once in the forest most turns were marked or arrowed so navigation was pretty easy. This first off road section runs down an easy track to a sharp right turn on to a single rut running along the bottom of a valley. It was in many ways the most exhausting bit of the whole event, requiring a fair amount of footing along, as it was wet and muddy, and the rain had started pouring down. However, there was only one tricky bit, a big puddle, just after which some twat, of course, had stopped to clean his goggles. Bit of manoevring got round that bunch of obstacles, and we were off and running.

The rest of the route was an easy couple of miles of forest track and we were out, on to the tarmac again.

Bit of milling about with the road book at this point, as the distances seemed a bit out, then we found the start of the first special. This was short and sweet, a series of turns on a nice, shale fire road 2.6 miles long. Loads of fun.

After the finish, it was a couple of miles to the next challenge, a short, sharp climb that got rougher towards the top. This was pretty steep, so it was second gear, throttle on and blasting, hanging on to the bars and looking for the crest, to be greeted with a bloody great board taking up half the track saying: Photo!

Oh well you do your best, bit more wheelspin and wrestling with the bars to look good, and we were out onto the top.

From there the course ran down a single steep rut on to slimy sand littered with cut tree branches. I was getting confident by this point, cracking on a bit, sure enough one of the branches was my downfall, the front wheel sliding out on one and I was down.

This off bent the gear lever through 180 degrees, so I floundered on in whatever gear I was in to a flat bit of track and used a ring spanner to straighten it.

Must get that folding tip gear lever made up that I've been planning.

There followed a couple of miles of slippy, rutty track that was a bit of an arse and then back onto fire road.

There then followed a navigational debacle on my part, despite the super expensive all singing and dancing nav/dashboard. The Touratech ICO suffers from an incredibly loose contrast knob, so much so that as soon as you set off it vibrates round and the screen goes blank. I had temporarily fixed this some months ago with a little bit of gaffer tape. Sure enough as soon as I started the event it came loose. Now the key to the road book gig is reading the instructions while comparing your own distance travelled via the trip. I was reduced to having to reach forward now and then to check my distance travelled, which collided with my natural desire to nail on and have a good time.

The result was 1/2 an hour milling about in the forest trying to find the way out, during which I lost contact with John Monger.

When I finally found the exit with the aid of a marshal I happened to turn out on the road behind a KTM 950 and GS1150. 'Ah well I'll tag along behind these two' I thought. 4 miles of tarmac took us to a long gravel/rut climb next to some trees. I must admit at one point on this climb I decided to nip past these two, I hopped into the other rut, hammered up it, and as I was starting to pass I hit a big rock, rotated 15 degrees and found myself looking at those exciting Go!!!!! graphics on the side of the KTM.

I decided to calm down then, it's all very well T boning some bloke on his 6 year old XR250, ah, yes, all in the spirit of the event. But a eight grand KTM might be a different matter.

More track and a bit of a detour which had some baffled riders manhandling various BM's, KTM's, and Cagiva's around in a pitch black forest, over a collection a slick mud ditches, took us to the start of the second stage.

At this point I realised it was Blez and Pat I'd been following, and tagging along behind was a mate of theirs on an XR400. I let them all line up as a group at the start and then sat behind them.

Blez was the first away, followed by Pat and then XR400 man. Then I'm up waiting for the green light. The road book is telling me this is a 10 mile stage and we have already covered the worst terrain, so it should be good.

The green light goes and I'm off, giving it some but trying to be smooth while enjoying the sliding around on the corners. After half a mile I pass XR400 man, wow, he must be cruising. Another couple of miles and I glimpse a helmet in the distance, blimey, that can't be Pat Keenan? It isn't, it's a travelling marshal. The world returns to reality.

Another couple of miles though, and I see the tail of a KTM disappearing round a corner. I can't believe it, I slowly reel him in, and I can see Blez ahead of him. Ah, there must have been a burger van near the start and they must have detoured, that can be the only explanation.

It's at this point I make the classic mistake, instead of thinking 'well, I've been catching him so if I stick to the same pace I'll go past', I speed up, next moment Pat's diving into a corner, I've left it too late, the rear wheel comes round and I'm off. Drat, drat and double drat, I jump up, heave the bike up, hop on, hit the starter, she's running again. The gear lever looks like something Uri Geller's been at, so I just dump the clutch and the bike gets going, the gear I'm in seems to allow me to go reasonably fast, but a few experimental prods at the gear lever prove fruitless. Oh well better just get a move on.

I hack on some more miles and damn me if I don't see Keenan again. Right, better get it right this time. Bit of tussling and I'm past him, and I have Blezard in my sights. At this point the track goes 90 degrees right round a pile of logs, I swing wide to check the lines and get the bike lined up to get the power on, and....the back breaks away in a lurid slide. The bike's at that point when I was thinking 'that's it, I'm down (again)' and it started coming back. Of couse, while I'm busy seeing how well I can fish tail, Keenan goes past again. Noooo.....

So, I have to battle past him again and start creeping up on Blez, it's tricky at this point as the track's real slimy in some trees, but after a little wait it opens out into two ruts, and I nail it past. Fantastic. Then the finish is in sight. The usual muddy chicane to the finish light beam, I drop into it and sure enough, stall out 12 inches short of the beam. Frantic thumbing of thumbing of the starter gets me going again, jolly annoying though, I put another 20 seconds on my time.

In the finish area there a bit joshing and photo taking with Blez and Pat, then I get down and check out the gear lever situation. It's rock solid. I know what's happened as John and I have a mutual friend who crashed an Elefant on the Dyfi and did the same damage. As the bike has a rigid gear lever a crash on that side can send a shock force down the shaft to a little collection of selector levers inside the engine casing. These then jam up and you have to take the whole lot apart to free it up. So, looks like I'm in third gear for the rest of the event.

From there it's a short trip to the lunch stop which is packed with nearly a hundred bikes, and a burger van. I catch up with John Monger, who has also had a good morning, the highlight being overtaken at speed by a maniac on a KTM who then found a gate closed across the track. Cue bent gate with a KTM on one side and the rider on the other. John then trickled round the open side gate. Cheers mate, see you later.

During most of the morning excitements it's been pouring with rain, this continues during lunch, and when we set of to explore the woods again. The afternoon is essentially a bunch of fire roads in the pouring rain. By four o'clock we have got lost with a group of riders (me and my useless trip again). All this time I've been starting the 'fant with the clutch in and it's been hammering the battery. Finally we have gone through some gates to find a farm and the group is turning round to head back, I hit the starter, dead battery. The group has gone, leaving John and I. So we dump my bike, and John gives me a pillion. We head out the other way, reasoning, farm, tarmac must be near, and sure enough couple of minutes later we on the road back to Llandovery.

It's a grim journey, there are no pillion footrests and John's getting hell from the pouring rain. Finally we are back and pick up my car and trailer (with the obligatory cock ups and milling about, thank god for mobile phones). We head back, pick up my bike amd retire hurt.

Everybody passes a pleasant evening, we spend it chatting to a guy who is there with his girlfriend and has been competing on a KTM 950 in his first off road event and has been having a good time on it. I hear later the Pat Keenan glimpses me in the pub, obviously out of my body armour, and comments that he is shocked to see that I look like a skinny teacher. Cheeky monkey, I can see fisticuffs in the future.

Next morning dawns dry, the weather forecast is good, John's got a spare battery so I decide to try to complete the second day. So it's lights off, heated grips off, take the bulb out of the rear light as the brake light's stuck on (as usual) and stop as little as possible to preserve the battery.

The first muddy single rut section has dried out a lot and is now really a piece of piss, though I still manage to fall off by trying to get onto the pegs at an inappropriate moment. The first special goes well, third seems to be fast enough to get a time that is not too embarassing. The big climb is a bit of a challenge, as I have to hit the bottom faster than normal, I get up it OK, with a bit of judicious clutch slipping, only to bin at the top. Still, made it.

I've sorted the trip out with a new strip of gaffer tape, so navigation is now going well, in fact it's quite enjoyable. An hour or so later and we are at the start of the second special. John gets of first, with me following. The first part of the special is enlivened by the sight, on one of the corners, of two blokes struggling to drag a bike out of a hole. Two looks enough to me so I keep the power on. Later I find out the bike was a BM 1100, so maybe I should stopped to lend a hand. Yeah, right.

After eight or so miles what do I see, but Mr Monger, I reel him in slowly, then spend five minutes being peppered with stones until I find a way past on the same two rut section were I passed Blez. That made my weekend, I've never caught him on a stage before.

The lunch stop was much more enjoyable, the whole scene light by watery sunshine as we met up with Paul, Pat, Derek (a fellow Big Trail Bike Club member) and the guy with the KTM we had been chatting too the night before. It was at this point I got my camera out and took most of the pics.

The afternoon was fairly uneventful, with a bit if wandering about and getting lost, a tricky climb and a couple of showers at the end of the day.

Finally back to the Rugby Club Parc Ferme, hand shakes all round, and pack up for the trip home. Heading back it's that warm, post event feeling, heater on and the CD playing the Alabama 3, as I watch Derek overtaking me in the pouring rain on his KTM 950, have a nice trip home mate.

A perfect weekend.

Cheers Andy C

PS pics up in about half an hour on www.stellalpina.co.uk , Cambrian 2004 link

Bob, Thanks very much - enjoyed the event immensely. 11th overall - I'm amazed, especially having only ridden the bike one other time this year!! Thanks again and I'm looking forward to the next one! You never know, I might even drag the africa twin out next time if the weather is a bit better ;-) 

Regards Mark Hazelton

hi bob, please could you pass on my thanks to all at wtra who were involved with the cambiran rally, had a great weekend despite the rain, stuffed the second test on Sunday so will be interested to see what effect this had on my result. back to work shortly so will have to be content with memories from a top weekend!

thanks once again

Gareth Hampson (15) Andy leeson (63)

Bob

Great news to hear that Dyfed Dirt Bike Club have been able to get permission to run events in the Brechfa Forest again, I wish them every success.

Illegal riding is placing all off-road motorsport in jeopardy and not just the future use of the Brechfa Forest, the use of all Forest Enterprise and MOD land is in danger of being lost.

We must all be seen to be doing everything possible to discourage and actively prevent illegal riding. Naming, shaming (if these people can be shamed) and banning illegal riders from taking part in any ACU sanctioned events are just some of the ways we can be seen to be taking positive action, we must be seen to be doing whatever we can.

Well done the DYFED DIRT BIKE CLUB, a great result.

Regards Bob Jeffries

Shame about Juan. One of those riders who shows what enduros should be about. The bloke wants a bloody medal for having a go on the last day of the 6 Day. The news that the FIM wants to withhold medals for those not having a go is first rate. Exclusion should be word. Enduro have the word endure in their title. The best events have always been the hardest. The mistake made in modern enduros is to make it possible for the event to need a special test. If only 1 or 2 riders were on time all this fuss about tests would not be relevant. Also the throttle works both ways and disc brakes work. If a check is to fast and dusty maybe the problem is going that is too easy. Wouldn't want to be that Spanish chap Marc P (he's not worth looking for the correct spelling) if we get a world round in the UK in the near future.

Matt

Hawkstone Postscript

I'm writing this on behalf of my son Jason Darby who crashed out of the Fast Eddy on the 5th of Sept he was leading the Expert 250 class at the time and only three laps to go, he suffered a badly broken wrist. He would like to thank a few people that helped him after the crash, 1st Mr P A Rollands who was the first to him at the track side, and the unsung hero's St Johns and all the medical staff there at Hawkstone Park, Thank you!!! Jason is still in Gobowen Hospital but is now on mend with six pins one plate and three screws later, he hope's to be back racing next year, and can then thank those people personally. Best Regards Matt Darby

Radnor

The Radnor Forest Enduro was run yesterday for the first time in over six years. Wow, what a good event.

The course is made up of a figure of 8 lap with the pits and two time checks around the cross-over part of the lap. The first section is the special test and is over five miles in length with a bit of all sorts of terrain thrown in. The going is such that it would be very difficult to memorise the test and so it is kinda of like riding it afresh each time.

The second liaison section is the longest (approx' 40mins allowed) with again varied going and occasional fire road to provide respite. This section had probably one of the most difficult parts with a gradual descent through forest along a logging track with the usual mangle of stumps, logging debris and wet mushy going...very hard to stay upright and not end up paddling down. This was quite a long section which certainly left me out of breath each time I rode it. Nearing the end of the check is a sheep track, very narrow, through cleared forest, off-camber, required concentration, which I lost on the second lap, but more of that later.

This forestry enduro had a lot of new, unrutted sections, quite of lot of green going underwheels, and unsually some parts through deciduous woods, where the ground covering is quite different to that typically found through coniferous woods.

The course was superbly marked, with plenty of tape used to prevent overshooting of turns and course direction changes. All along the course where clearly marked safety points which were numbered, so if one neded to direct marshalls, ambulance etc. then it was simply a case of remembering what was the last safety point number you passed. There were plenty of marshalls both static and riding, with the local Army Cadets out in force ('cuse the pun). In fact the entry and event was honoured to have the younger members of the Jones family (Dylan, Robert and Rowan et al) out providing the riding marshalling. Given that they had just returned last weekend from the ISDE, this showed an admirable committment to the sport...thanks and good on you lads.

I had been debating whether to ride sportsman or clubman schedule. Not knowing the event I bottled it and went for S/man (unusually this was also the over 40s schedule). This meant two laps and the special test section again at the end of lap two, all-in-all about 4 hours worth of riding. The times were comfortable, although the course in places required effort and a mistake would cause one to drop time. Up until check 2 on lap two I was coming in between 7 and 10 mins early at each check. In fact I was even thinking as I started out on the second lap, cor I could have done this on the clubman schedule.

Then on the long liaison section I managed to get the bike wedged in a ditch whilst trying to find an alternative line...this reminded me of why I do like the Gasser, unfortunately that was at home in the garage awaiting a new clutch, so it was back to the impromtu weight training as I heaved the KTM 400 out of the ditch. Later, on the sheep track I looked up, lost concentation, and left the track and found out exactly how soft and deep the coniferous debris to the sides of the track is and how far the bike could sink into it. Knowing that I was now running tight on the check I proceeded to use that helpful technique of swearing at the bike and the situation. Along comes a helpful young riding marshall by the name of David. David assists me to get the bike back on the track, now thinking that time is tighter than Paul Bates at the bar, I hare off only to hit a well disguised rock on the track which bounces my front wheel off the track and once more down into the soft forest debris. David who was behind must have thought I was a complete numpty rider. This time I had found a lose tree stump which got wedged between the rear wheel and swing arm, again favoured technique of swearing. David and I finally managed to remove the tree stump. Set off feeling tired and breathless and glad that I was riding the S/man schedule, managed to get to the check having dropped only two minutes (1 to count with the 1 min late allowance). Managed to drop no more time to the finish.

In conclusion I would say this is probably one of the best club enduros I have ridden this year, very well organised, excellent course in fact it will be a "must ride" for me next year.

Many thanks to the Central Wales Auto Club for setting up and running this terrific event.

Howard Davis

Crychan

Bob, Would you please pass on my thanks to all the marshalls at the Crychan they did an excellent job. My special thanks go to a travelling marshall named Julian he kindly followed me through the last long check on Sunday. It was encouragement from him and the other marshalls on the checks which got me through I finished and narrowly avoided "houring out" I couldn't have done it without them!!

All the best John Batchelor #282 Over 40's

PS remember to bring more gas next time!

Well done to the organising team of the Welsh Two Day as this year’s event was one of the best in recent times with a superb course. Following the downfall of rain on the day before the event, the off road checks and special tests were just about perfect with some challenging going, particularly in the second check through the Abbey and Waun forest on day two. Check times were also spot-on providing only a couple of minutes spare on some checks. The popularity of the event is growing with over 500 riders competing in the event and another 400 entries being returned. An important factor in the success of the Welsh is the friendliness of the marshals and officials and the superb countryside the course travels over.

Andy Waters would like to say a special thanks to ET James for supplying a 2004 400 KTM EXC to ride on the recent Welsh two day. The bike Andy competed on was the same one World Rally star Alistair McRae rode on the recent Powys enduro in early June. McRae really showed both his skills and the bike’s capability by not only winning the Clubman Class outright but also putting in test times that would have been good enough for 4th overall in the expert class. Overall ET James did very well in the Welsh 2 day this year with awards for the Best One Make Team, Best Trade Team, Best 4 stoke Clubman - Nicolas Evans 250 Suzuki, Best 125 Clubman - Neil Allen Suzuki 125, runner up 125 Clubman - Gareth Rowlands, Best Over 50 - Andy Waters, 400 KTM EXC and runner up in the over 50 class Peter Lawry, 300 KTM EXC.

Welsh 2004

i would just like to say after reading the emails about pot hunters in the sportsman class for some of the riders i agree! but the winner katie wakely was actually quite annoyed with being put in that class as when she entered she just ticked the ladies box. she was hoping to compete in the experts class as she wanted the chance to beat catrina price which may i add that she did on test times!! so cant blame her for the organisers assuming because she is a woman that she is a sportsman!!!

a rider

Ivor Morkott Trial

Hi, Just a short note from one happy chappie about the event on Sunday. Its still early days but it seems that it was a huge success. Speaking personally I think it was the best yet. ALL those that helped either on the day or beforehand can be justly proud of themselves, all the competitors that showed their appreciation at the end (and there were a lot!) have YOU to thank for a cracking day out. When the chips were down and people were asked to stand up and be counted you stood up and did your club proud. We were lacking nothing. Bloody well done! The do in the night was also completely successfull, well, at least I think it was because along with many others I got completely p**sed! It all looked great from inside my head anyway! I've got to mention Chairman Witts's performance as raffle announcer! now there's a second career if ever I saw one! anyone else want a dip in Yoshi's box?? (if you missed it you DEFINATELY missed out!) Finally in case they don't get the group messages please dont forget to pass on your appreciation to those that worked themselves into the ground for the event. In particular our chairman Jimmy Witts, Bob Mullins and Neil Adams, As between them they did the huge bulk of the course work and deserve all the thanks they can get for the relentless determination they showed to make this event a success. I would have liked to have thanked them personally in the announcements at the end, but by then I was stressed and fatigued having been slaving over a hot pen from 7:30 AM till 7:30 PM! so a lot of things I would like to have said went unsaid. Of course as I have already mentioned a large number of club hero's once again did a fabulous job, but day in day out behind the scenes and on their own initiative those three were supermen!! You will only ever know what it takes (and what it takes out of you) to run an event like this if you actually do it yourself. Trust me on this! A word of thanks or a slap on the back is the very least you can do, and it goes a long way! Next is what do we do with all the cash? Ideas please! As a club we don't want to have money sitting in a bank account, much better that it gets put back into making the work and stress of running an event a worthwhile thing. Ie. lets have some fun! Get your thinking caps on and suggest some club activities we can bankroll! Trips, events, nights out, days out, etc etc give us a clue! Finally, how popular would an evening (unnofficial) closed to club enduro cross go down? we have the venue, how about the plan? let your views be known. See you Tuesday, Paul Lear

Welsh 2004

I totally agree with the comments made by 'Basket Weaver' regarding 'Pot Hunters' and the fact that many have lost sight of the fact that the 'Sportsman' class is supposed to be for beginners to the sport...HOWEVER I would like to point out that Katie Wakely (like myself) entered the 'Ladies' class, which usually runs to Clubman times.

For some reason the organisers of this event saw fit to but us both in the 'Sportsman' class instead, in fact only one lady was listed in the 'Ladies' class. So perhaps in this instance it would be more appropriate to direct opinions towards the organisers and not the individuals who had no say in the matter.

I would also like to ask the orgainsers when they are going to release the correct results from this event. It appears someone saw fit to forget they had a pocket full of time cards on day 2 and consequently landed many riders with DNF's who did in fact finish the event, myself being one of them!

Anyone who was at the event knows that any rider with 4 test times would have had to have a serious road accident to not finish the event - you could have pushed your bike to the finish!

signed - A Rider

I was most disappointed to be asked at The Welsh 2 Day for a payment of Ł 50 00 to have the Fund Raising stall in the paddock area, I understand it was Kenny Williams who insisted on this, despite the fact I was given permission by Elwin Price Clerk of the Course, his words to me were " No Problem" I took this as a yes and the stall was set up, I would never be so presumptuous to set up a stall without getting permission first, I was reluctant at first to pay the Ł 50 00, my first reaction was to pack up and go home, but I decided reluctantly to pay, as it would have been unfair to the people who had already bought raffle tickets, and I had promised the Draw would be held at the end of The Welsh. I tried to point out that any funds raised would be used for all Teams competing in Poland, this of course included the Welsh lads, but this was to no avail. It is common knowledge that I have supported Enduro's at all levels, especially the I.S.D.E. for many years, using my own funds, and I cannot count the number of Welsh lads I have helped over the years at both National, European, and International Events, to me Enduro Riders are all the same, I treat them all equally and give them my best, as I said initially I was most disappointed. Big Bob Room.

Having read Bob Room's report on the Bob Mullins enduronews.com web page about fund raising for the British ISDE at the 2004 Welsh 2 Day Enduro. my husband telephoned Bob to explain and correct several mistakes and possible misunderstandings in that report. They had an amicable chat, him agreeing to consider amending parts of the report depending on any further comments he may receive in the next few days. Several months ago when I read that a committee had been formed to raise funds for the British ISDE teams for this year's event, the Welsh 2 Day committee sent a cheque for Ł500 to help them with their fund raising, on the understanding, as I recall, that the British team fund raisers would not try to raise funds at the 2004 Welsh 2 Day in direct competition to the Welsh ISDE fund raising efforts . Bob had been accepted as a rider entry and rode number 48 in the sportsman class but to the best of my knowledge we received no application to use the Welsh as a venue to fund raise for the British ISDE teams. On reflection I accept that we must take some of the blame for the misunderstanding, but to publicly chastise Kenny Williams on the web is not the way to continue your friendship with the Welsh. To arrive as a rider and then ask a very busy man on a wet wednesday, you appear to presume that you would be allowed to set up your stall. Presumptuous or what ? When the lady who was authorised to collect the trade stand fees was refused payment by Bob. I as chairperson explained the situation to him and he reluctantly agreed to pay . We've known you too long Bob, to fall out over Ł50. On a final note, in future please write or telephone our secretary and ask if you can use our event for your fund raising, don't just turn up as a rider and then ask, it will save all this bad feeling, a public apology on the web would certainly assist in repairing the obvious rift that this has caused.

Sheila Powell (Welsh 2 Day committee Chairperson)

Started the bike prep (too late for the body prep) way before the actual event - experience from the last 2 years suggests you can't afford any mechanicals when trying to run to schedule over the course of the 2 day event.

New rear wheel, new Enduro tyres, new front/rear sprockets and an engine service, (as my 400EXC is now 2 years old). Got to the start mid afternoon in the middle of one of the rain storms to find the park almost as rutted and churned up as some of last years sections.

The guy in front of me at scrutineering was failed for loose front wheel bearings, but with all my pre event checks I sailed through, so parked the bike up in its row in the parc ferme, only to have the side stand bolt snap and have the bike on its side before the event even started ! I had brought a new bolt just in case of this, but couldn't get the remains of the sheared bolt out of the bracket, so parked up against a nearby tree. This meant I was among bikes with later start times than me, so fingers crossed it didn't fall over in the night losing fuel, or that later arrivals did not block me in and then lock up their bikes . . . .

Next morning found the bike upright and got permission to retrieve it early.Weather was at least dry, but not the sunshine promised. 8.30 rolled around and we were away, (although that was the last I saw of 2 of the other riders on my minute, for the rest of the event).

Special test 1 was only a few miles from the start and looked similar to last year, but rather damper and therefore slippier. Just after the start there was a small bog that I saw some riders jumping over, but when it came to my turn I bottled out and stalled the bike ! Of course, this is where the majority of the spectators stood - embarrassing to say the least.

Made it round the rest of the test, even overtaking a few riders - and even better, one of the photographers got this on film ! Is No 77 out there - was that you Liam ?

Made the next couple of checks without drama.

Around the middle of the day, I was sat on the bike at a check on a fireroad (no sidestand remember) waiting for my minute when I heard a bike approaching at high speed from behind. I then the sound of brakes/wheels locking, abruptly followed by silence.

This was very closely followed by a bang and a huge weight knocked me and my bike clear to the ground. At first I though I had broken my leg - I couldnt get up - then I realised this was because my bike was on top of me, together with the rider of the bike that hit me. He had misjudged his speed on entry to the check, realised he would not stop, and 'decked' his bike snapping off the front mudguard and flying through the air to collide with me.

The top on my Alpinestars saved me from being gouged by footpeg and gear lever, but the gap between boot top and knee armour let my leg take the full force. One week on , the limp is hardly noticeable !

The rest of the first day was quite straightforward - until the penultimate section of the day with a slippy climb through the woods, where solos and sidecars littered all the best lines, and a few others beside. Great, on time all day and now this major 'stopper' !

Watching the carnage for a moment to try and decide on a plan, I saw another rider take a diversion through the forest to the side of the main track, and decided to give it a go. Amazingly, despite visions of getting stuck in virgin pine mulch,I got 3/4 of the way up - past the solos and sidecars, and managed to push, drag and kick the bike the remainder. By then of course, I didn't have the energy to sit on the bike, let alone ride it, and after a quick breather which ate up valuable minutes, I continued on. 5 minutes later (or so it seemed) I came round a corner to find another bog, followed by a solid rock climb, with 4 riders already stuck in mud above their axles.

The middle line looked bad as did the left and right side of the bog, but I remembered succeeding on the right side last year so gave it a go - no such luck this year ! Twice I manhandled the bike and picked it up to changed ruts and twice I just got stuck again. I was almost ready to quit when I managed to fire the bike out of the worst bit, and wearily continue on the route. Made it back to the check just in time.

Don't remember much else so the rest of day 1 must have been straightforward. Got back to the parc ferm with a piece of 2x4 to prop the bike up - to discover oil weeping from the new head gasket, fitted only the week before . . . also seemed to have lost the rear disk protector, which had been snapped off somewhere on the course. However, as I had stayed on my 'minute' all day and even better weather was promised for Day 2, I resolved to continue. Then it started to rain.

Day 2 started brighter than day 1, and I thought that provided the 'bog' from day 1 didn't claim me a second time, it would be an easy day. Wrong. Its hard to believe what the passage of 500 bikes can do to the terrain, but that, together with the overnight rain made running the reverse of day 1 much, much more difficult - in some cases, even when trying to go downhill the sections which had yesterday been uphill !

The first special test was nearly as greasy as it had been on day 2 last year, and I went for a slow, cautious survival run - last year I lost over 20 minutes on this test. Apologies to no 69, not sure if I collided with you or you with me, but I know you went down on the first hill, and it was all I could do to stay on and make progress. As the starter commentated that morning, "I like no 69, not sure why. . . Maybe its because you can read the no even when the bike is upside down". Hope you made it round the rest of the course safely.

Managed to get lost on Toms Farm after the downhill section, but the real problem of the day for me came just after I overtook a sidecar and 3 solos. As I almost never overtake, the overinflated confidence from this manoeuvre mad me miss the next signed turn.

I slid to a stop and turned around, making it to the correct route just before the first solo caught up. He then, heroically tried to overtake me on the single track, and I thought "this track looks familiar". Familiar, of course, not in reverse, but in this direction.

We then both got stopped on a root infested climb, and while off the bike pushing I realised I had done exactly this section, the same direction, and got stuck , yesterday. Despite the navigation error, four other bikes had followed my lead . . .

After turning around I finally got to the check and clocked in one minute late - just !

All in all, my best 'Welsh' so far, challenging, almost to the point of impossibility, but not quite. It takes alot of preparation, money and effort to compete in this event, and if the weather is bad it can be very difficult for Sportsmen and clubmen riders - but where else this side of the channel can you get 15 hours of racing across spectacular countryside.

Tks to all the organisers and support teams.

Ian Mackie

As someone that no longer competes, but still takes an active interest in the sport of enduro's, may I be permitted a few albeit cynical views ? I was at the welsh this year, and it was great once more to soak up the atmosphere and pleasantries unique to the welsh. It was with a little surprise then, that I looked at the results. The winner of the "SPORTSMAN" class (Katie Wakely) had four great tests. So good in fact that she would have been fourth in the clubman class and claimed a GOLD and top 40 finish in the experts! In fact the top 6 sportsmen would have had a gold in the experts! and the top 19 would have had a gold medal in the clubman class. The tests were exactly the same for all, so results can be compared. (in fact the sportsmen at the front of the field had the worst conditions to deal with!) What's going on? I'm not too old to remember the time that it was an honourable thing to enter in a class higher than you previously rode, even if the colour of your medal went from gold to silver (or even bronze) The kudos of an expert or clubman silver far outweighing a sportsman gold. Why did these people enter the sportsmen class? I am probably a bit naive in thinking that the sportsmen have slacker checks and fewer laps to encourage newcomers and those without the equipment or ability to ride in any of the other classes. It looks like the sportsman class is really for those riders that want a nice pot without having to beat the honourable massed ranks of the clubmen or indeed experts. Its very likely that this practice puts off genuine sportsmen riders from competing, knowing that unless they have a lightening quick test, they are likely to end up with just a bronze. Come on you pot hunters, leave the sportsman class for sportsmen and enter to your ability!

Basket weaver.

Graythwaite 25.4.04

Well I attempted it, managed to stay in one piece (just), and made it into work this morning. Those where my goals so I succeeded. I only completed one 16 mile lap instead of the allocated two laps for the Trail bike class, but, the terrain was unbelievably difficult and just one lap was an achievement in itself especially for a relatively inexperienced rider such as me. At the half way point I was only 20 minuets overtime which was surprising as I'd already nearly had my leg broken when an 'expert' lost control and careered into me. Thankfully my Alpinestars saved me but the egg and bruise are something else. By this time I had sort of teamed up with the DRZ owners club (near the back of the pack) Rob Shannon and Richard Gallager. Richard and I helped each other out a couple of times; the DRZ's are heavy beasts. Then the really difficult terrain began, extreme to say the least. The going was constant very, very steep rocky, rooty and very slippery climbs and descents. Also, with the odd bog and stream crossing thrown in for good measure. My big time loss came in one of these bogs, I stalled then Richard was off leaving me to dig myself out on my own. After struggling for 15 minuets I had to push the bike on its side, and roll it completely over then pick it back up onto its wheels. This put me on fairly solid ground, but in the trees. This is when the nightmare happened. My bike would not start the ultimate in reliability a DRZ would not start. Stupidly I flattened the battery trying and had to disconnect my Acerbis halogen lights, then struggle with my chest locked against the bars and push the bike to the top of the next hill which fortunately was only a fairly shallow incline of about 50 meters. My drinks bladder was empty but I'd made it to the top and managed to get the thing bump started going down the hill. I rested at the bottom for about ten minutes trying to get a little charge in the battery before I either stalled or fell off again and needed the starter again. Whatever happened I knew my race was over as I'd lost about an hour, but I plodded on. I hardly had the energy to stand up any more and this made things a bit more difficult and my arse a bit bruised today. One consolation though was passing the other DRZ guys having a breather, lids off the works, halfway up one of the particularly nasty climbs. I didn't see them again so I suppose I won the amateurs on DRZ's race anyway, had a brilliant time and amazed myself with what I rode. One thing I can say is though I don't think anything can prepare you for an Enduro like that but actually doing it. So all those that are thinking should I or should I not, go out and do it as you'll never get the terrain to prepare you by riding on green lanes. Roll on Sunday, Woodhouse H&H (without the halogen lights connected).

Jake Lomax

LARA meets Alun Michael

With reference to Ian Booth's letter where Mr Michael had a meeting with Friends of the Ridgeway. Well he's a walker too remember. I wonder if he's a banker? That would make him a walker and a banker. A wanker!

Meeting with the Friends of the Ridgeway only goes to show what a one-sided affair this whole thing is. It's a shame that Lara, TRF, BMF etc., etc., aren't financially well-off, then they could make a contribution to Tony Blair and his mates and then WE would be steering the investigation then!

Fingers crossed. JED

LARA meets Alun Michael

Meeting LARA would cloud the issue, but Mr Michael could meet with Friends of the Ridgeway? or am I chronologically incorrect.

Nothing on the enforcement of present laws WRT illegal use.

Not quite a quote, but "LARA needs to be part of the solution and not part of the problem." Conciliation or a veiled threat?

Ian Booth

Dear Bob and all Legal Off-Roaders, So Gwent Police are out chasing off-roaders are they? Unfortunately these are the "I don't give a SH*T" (mostly illegal) idiots they are chasing, who have us all in the 'tarred-with-the-same-brush' scenario. As we've said so many times, we are being forced to quit off-roading by these yobs but they still go on riding. Why must the majority suffer at the hands of the criminal minority? I see them every time - without exception - that I ride off-road. Enduro race bikes, still with numbers on; motocrossers that would never pass an MoT as long as I had a hole in my arse! And what about the 25mph speed limit? Bullsh*t. They only want to play; and play at the expense others . Sorry for sounding off but they make my urine boil. Cheers, AL

I write as a mountain biker and off roader, the latter being much more fun, and it is my opinion that the green lanes will be shut down to bikes in 1-3 years regardless of what we do, there are far to many walkers etc who have pen and paper ready to report us and so and so forth, I sold my bike 8 months ago because of the lack of places to ride, I cycle around derbyshire a lot and have noticed more and more signs going up saying no motorised vechiles allowed, I toyed with the idea of joining the trf (sorry about this) but they were very anorak kind of people probably as bad as the walkers at saving there little bit of space, I am just a regular guy who does not break the law and rode where i could but I don't want to attend meetings to get bored to death, not commited to the sport you cry and in some ways i am not but to me the writing is on the wall regardless.

I could go on, the way I think we should go forward when all else has failed and I would put my money where my mouth is if any trf member wants to bet me, and that is to organise a mass trespass just like the walkers did on kinder scout, the government brought in the gun laws to stop people being shot, but most people would agree that shootings have gone up, if you don't agree go for a walk in moss side manchester at night and tell me how safe you feel.

I wasn't a law breaker but I am prepared to be one,

I think the trf are a worthy cause even though I dont subscribe, I just think they are fighting a losing battle,

Very sorry about the spelling.

Regards Craig

PJM Reports

Well what a brilliant weekend. Left home at 8am Friday Morning and walked back through my front door at 6.15pm Monday.

The PJM was the first event I have really had anything to do with and if this is the sort of thing that I have to expect then I am so glad I took up off road riding. The people who I met from this list and the another couldn't of been better. A couple I already knew Polly and Andy, Dunney I had also met before. I met up with Macky and his good friend (poss lover) John at the pub next door to their hotel, and this started a frenzy of drinking over the next 3 hours or so. The conversation didn't dry up one over the entire weekend - bollx they can talk - no only joking. We had befriended a couple of chaps who were talking bikes at a bar the evening before. Once we had filled up from a very empty petrol station at Llanidloes we made our way to the event - and as the bar had technically shut several pints of ale had been put on my room tab, thankfully as the hotel was run by - well what can only be described as kids (they didn't get us breakfast on Saturday am) they forgot to charge me for the drinks. 1 am came round and we all went bed. Once we had filled up from a very empty petrol station at Llanidloes on Sat am we made our way to the event. Once the bikes were out of the vans and everyone was kitted up the competitors amongst us headed for scrutineering. Well the DRZ of our new mate John didn't make it through so a replacement exhaust was used as it got through. His mate - who I think was dean had pressure washed his helmet and washed most of the gold ACU sticker of it, so he had to source another to get to get himself through.

The start time was getting near so off us marshals went to our posts. As none of us really knew what was going on it was not long before the competitors starting to over take us. Thankfully all the areas that required permanent marshals had got them. It was very nice to of met Patrick's Mother and Sister on Saturday evening and joining them for a nice Indian meal was a perfect end to a near perfect day - so thankyou for that. I don't think I even tried another pint after that as we were all far to tired we all headed for our beds - and on to day 2. As the coarse was reversed it made for an entertaining first lap. I couldn't believe how different a track could be just by reversing it. After I had done 2 laps on day 2 I decided to grab some lunch, I got out for my third lap as the very last bike out of the pits, I had the pleasure of following the side car round for a while and were they can get that thing doesn't bear thinking about. I had to stop for a while to help 2 riders who had collided on the fire road just after the first special stage. 1 rider ripped off his front break pipe and the other snapped off his kill switch, thankfully no one physically hurt. After we had swept the coarse for the final time I was ready to pack up - which I did.

A great time was had by all the marshals as we all pitched in pushing, repairing and laughing at bikes and their riders (especially on the shale hill climb - which was my favourite). All the free burgers and coffee was a small bonus. It was a first class event and I will be there again next year - may be competing I not sure yet.

A big thanks to Marianne, Colin? and all the others who prepared for this event. It must take a massive effort to organise an event such as this.

I am sure that if Patrick could of picked any Event he would of probably chose this one purely as everyone (at least everyone I spoke to) enjoyed it. I am sorry to say, that I never actually met Patrick. From what I heard from so many different people he was a first class bloke. It is always said that the good ones go first. May he rest in peace and his family take pride in the fact that he was genuinely loved by all that knew him.

I have posted some pictures up on http://www.smartgroups.com/pictures/openalbum.cfm?GID=91618&AlbumID=4248425

I am sorry but a few of the pictures are not of great quality but they were taken within the forest. I was able to lighten up and enhance the picture to get them to what they are now. I have had to use more than 1 album as there is quite a few pictures.

Regards Ian T-B

Well that was a top weekend, thanks to Marianne, Colin and all the Marshals for a excellent weekend, I'm writing a report for the Big Trail Bike club and Elefant owners list so I'll post it here when it's done. Not know though, I'm too knackered.

Hooray for heated grips.

Cheers Andy C Thanks to Marriane, Colin and all the marshalls + everyone including ian for advise on the pampera.

It was the pamps first outing after some gentle running in, an on the first down hill found out that I should have spent more time checking the pamp. scooting down the hill dipped the clutch so wouldnt be opposing the brakes to no effect, sliding gently into the undergrowth redesigning the back end - wanted to avoid a rock hitting the number plate so moved it to the right. Oh well these things happen its sunny i'll just get used to the bike, open the throttle move forwards - no sideways waving of the tail this is strange. First bumps - clunk - so thats the end of supension travel but it carried on going where i pointed it so not to worry. Couple of miles further and burrrr stop. checked fuel in tank kick over and off we go again.... buuurrrr stop - what the hell have i brought. Fuel starvation - common fault just keep loosening the petrol cap everytime the bike starts to die.. goto the climb - what climb pamp just went up - starting to enjoy this - feet up pop up that little rock face at the top of the climb - yes this is great... ruts next foot gets thrown skywards as low pegs catch on the edges.. but the bike still goes forwards with me attached.. strange. The more the lap goes on the more i'm really starting to enjoy the pamp, I can watch the kites/buzzards without a worry about what the bikes about to do. End of sighting lap stop refuel waggle the wheels - front bearing shot... oh well i've got spares change bearings and reassemble incorrectly - comparing ians pamp highlights this. checked if it was ok to continue tomorrow - thanks Marriane. Good food and company with the "northerners" "honary northerner" and "southerners" meant a nice relaxing evening and a good nights sleep. Day 2 - unloaded the bike stuck the "sidestand down" and then watched bike fall over and snap clutch lever - dont worry have spare. pump up slowly deflating rear tire and we're off. Starting to really enjoy the pamp mud snot puddles i can do anything... buuurrrrrrrr.. maybe not puddles. Ride to safish place where marshalls are on the choke as without engine dies - thanks for tip liam. Empty float bowl start her up travel 1 yard burrrr, empty float bowl again travel another yard. Think thats the end so pootle back riding on the choke. after a few miles bike decides its time to start working again. back at the start Marianne says i've ten minutes to get back out brills. fuel up and off for the best time i think i've ever had on a bike - it wasnt quick but who cares the more i rode this little bike the more i enjoyed rinig it. Third lap decided each snotty bit was a trial and i had to ride them feet up throughout without dabbing - didnt manage the climb as had two potable chicanes to negotiate but did virtually all the others - top fun. back to the pits said my fairwells and thanks pootled home thinking i'm going to really enjoy this bike. Oh and yes i have dinked the front rim - its a pamp after all

regards george Thanks to Marianne, Colin et al for putting on the PJM. 

Very good event, with an excellent route (esp. the slate/shale climb where ITB was sitting on Sunday morning) through some spectacular scenery. Sorry I didn't do stay to the end, but I was too tempted to be home at a reasonable hour after picking up a puncture.  Good to meet some of the listers too. Bob's event list works very well. Araf I entered the PJM when the regs came out hoping to have finished building and old brit single with rallying in mind. Surprisingly it is still not finished and so I was chuffed as hell when Shez suggested riding his little KDX220 in the event. He was going to ride his KTM 520 and so the bike was spare. Needless to say I jumped at the chance. Cheers mate. So arriving at the event I found my bike prepped and fuelled and all I had to do was get it scrutineered. I could get used to this. The event had quite a few new optional bits, which I had already ridden last year with Colin & Marianne on the basis that if Dunney can get up then most people probably can. With this in mind and having never ridden a 2 smoke before I set off with more than a little trepidation. The steep shale climb and the just as steep decent became the subject of most peoples conversations later on as they were tackled with varying degrees of success. The first lap was fairly uneventful. Even the scary hill did not present too many problems and the problems I did have were created by other people becoming chicanes. The decent was a bit more interesting as the bloody thing stopped on me going down the decent on the brakes as the engine braking was a little less than I was used to. This un-nerved me the first time it happened, but of course it doesn't really matter if the engine is running or not so subsequent descents were less of a problem. After the first lap I got back to the pits and my pit crew rapidly refuelled the bike, and I shot off for a breather at the start of the first special for some scoff where the Mrs and the Mother in Law were womanning the start. The first special was a steep climb in ruts and tree roots, but quite manageable unless you riding a sidecar (hi Colin) followed by fast fire roads. Good fun except that the KDX brakes are rubbish and so this caused a few interesting moments which I am sure will be reflected in the published time (get the excuses in early!). The second special was the opposite requiring you to ride along a very bumpy track in a thick forest. I am sure that the good guys enjoyed this a lot with lots of "air" possibilities. Being a muppet I did get some unintentional air but by and large just worked the suspension and my legs quite hard. The end of the lap was one of the best bits with a loop of bumps, jumps, ruts and water. Brill. At the end of the day I was a bit tired but had enjoyed the days riding. I departed quickly back to my in Laws as it was my daughters birthday so that we could do the cake bit and then down to the very excellent social in Llanidloes laid on by Colin and Marianne. The evening was not over as I dropped in to a pub where a few mates were staying on the way back home and almost got caught up in a fight, got home and found I had to repatriate a lost fox hound who kindly threw up some dead sheep in the car which now smells like an abbatoire. Next day was basically the same but run the other way round which is always interesting. All was going well until lap 2 of 3 when I had a good off in some deep ruts. Now minus a front mudguard and peak I set off again and suffered a new enemy of low winter sun and goggles getting plastered with mud. Interesting. I manage to finish the lap and turned round what was left of the mudguard to keep some of the mud off the goggles. This worked reasonably well but still meant that I couldn't see a lot when I was heading into the sun. The rocky climb up on Sweet lam was especially interesting as I had to ride up this looking straight down. Not very good when picking your way across bare rock. Anyway I managed to finish which I am very happy with.  A big up to Colin & Marianne who put this superb event on single handedly. The event was held in memory of lister Patrick James and I was touched that his mother and sister attended the event, his sister flying in from South Africa to attend. I think they enjoyed the event and spent a lot of time talking to riders, including some who had been in Spain with Patrick when he had his accident last year. The Marshalls did a great job and personally I was really chuffed that we managed to get so many for Patrick's TRF branch to marshall, most of whom had never been to this type of event. All, to a woman are now rally converts and so I hope we will see them out there soon competing (that is when Andy gets a bike that will keep going long enough to finish an event. A special mention has to go to all the control people as it was damn cold. We did not get cold as you keep warm by riding, but especially on Sunday when they were on station in the bitter wind for about 7 hours respect and thanks is due.

Myself and one of my mates have just been stopped by Thames Valley Police on The Ridgeway at Gore Hill. Two Police Landrover Defender 110`s four officers and one ROW representative from West Berkshire County Council and what a nice lady she was too. We were issued with National Trail Initiative 2004 notices which read as follows: The Ridgeway National Trail, west of the Thames is an un-surfaced "Public Highway". It is part ot the unclassified road network and is subject to the same legislation as any other Highway. ALL vehicles used on the Ridgeway must have the following: A Current Vehicle Excise Licence A Current MOT Certificate A Current Insurance Certificate ALL vehicles must be in roadworthy condition and display number plates which are clean and comply with the Vehicle Excise Regulations i.e. colur, size of lettering , height above ground level etc. Riders and passengers on Motorcycles must wear a Crash Helmet. All drivers/riders must have acurrent driving licence for the type of vehicle they are using. Failure to comply with any of the above will make you liable for prosecution. You should also not that if you drive or ride your vehicle in such a manner that it causes distress or annoyance to other users of the Ridgeway, powers under Section 59 (3) of the Police Reform Act 2002 could be invoked which could lead to the seizure and potential loss of your vehicle. Please accept this document as friendly advice, but bear in mind that you must consider this an "OFFICIAL WARNING". Interestingly, about five minutes prior to being stopped we had come across two vans parked on the Ridgeway (which at this point is RUPP) they had been riding motocross bikes along this stretch. I took some photo`s and armed with a grid reference was just about to phone the Police to advise them of this illegal activity when we were stopped. When we removed our helmets and they realised we were old buggers they became very chatty explaining the reasons behind this initiative. I requested that they arrest the lads with the motocros bikes but they declined claiming that according to the lads they didn`t realise that they couldn`t ride their bikes on the Ridgeway and didn`t realise that the Ridgeway is in fact a road. We all know this is bollocks and so do the Police but they were just happy to issue the motocross guys with the same notice as us. If the lads in the vans are reading this, yes you with Superbiketours.com plastered down the side then I suggest you f**k off back to were you came from (Bournemouth I beleive) and don`t come back unless you leave the motocross bikes at home. Better still take your bikes to Matchams Park were machines like that belong. Your not welcome on The Ridgeway so piss off !!! Rant over Paul I'm afraid the article headed Defra Consultation is incorrect in one very significant way. Hardly surprising since every motor journal I've looked at has also been hopelessly useless on the subject. The implimentation of Restricted Byway to replace RUPP comes in by 2005 as it was set out in the original 2000 act. It is nothing whatsoever to do with the latest proposals. What is being proposed under the latest initiative is that there should only be a one year period when anything can be put forward/ upgraded to mechanically propelled vehicle status/usage, be it a lost way, a  public right of way such as a footpath , bridleway or restricted byway, or even an unsealed [or even possibly tarred if it is also a public right of way, there is some confusion here] council road. Since the Council road list was specifically drawn up in the 20s as a result of motoring pressure, there are grounds for taking them out of the process. If you don't even understand the law how are you going to fight it? Jeremy Atkinson CTC Offroad Cymru

23rd January 2004

William Propert - Lewis
Countryside (Recreation and Landscape) Division 5
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Zone 1/01
2 The Square
Temple Quay
Bristol
BS1 6EB



Dear Mr Propert - Lewis

Re: Use of mechanically propelled vehicles on Rights of Way – Consultation document

I write to register my strong objections to the proposals and implications of this document. To say that it represents an entirely one-sided point of view would be a woeful understatement, and it is hard to see evidence of any balance within either the body of the document or the proposals made

The Consultation document places the apparent wishes of walkers and horse riders above those of every other user of legal and historically established rights of way. I would be interested to know the justification behind this, as such discrimination seems to be entirely against any notion of fair and balanced legislation. 

I quite agree that walkers and horse-riders should have access to rights of way whilst in the countryside, but why should this be totally at the expense of other recreational users of our established rights of way? At present only around five percent of the tens of thousands of miles of footpaths and other ‘green’ routes have vehicular access, so it is by no means an excessive amount. Is it not possible that walkers who already have free access to every single mile of this network should not perhaps tolerate a tiny percentage for those with different forms of recreation? To coin a phrase – ‘there is enough for everyone’s need – not everyone’s greed’

The document makes reference to the problems that shared use of this five percent can cause, but if that is the case, then it would be as justified to propose that these problem routes should be only used by mechanical propelled vehicles, and that horse riders and walkers should be excluded. This is clearly not going to happen, but the suggestion is just as balanced and tolerant as the actual proposals that are being offered up in the aforementioned document. 

Continued_.
It is interesting to note that the Risk Assessment within Section 33 only considers the possibility of injury from mechanically propelled vehicles to horses and walkers, rather than any other combination. As I understand it, it would be easy for an uncontrolled horse to seriously injure walkers, cyclists, motorcyclists or any other legitimate users of shared rights of way, and similarly an irresponsible pedestrian can cause significant injury to motorcyclists, horses and their riders.

I cannot see that the omission of such risk is accidental, and this further illustrates the lack of balance in the document. However, the aspects of potential risk, whoever may be the cause, could add weight to a possible ‘counter proposal’ that RUPP’s and BOAT’s should be prohibited for anything but mechanically propelled vehicles as this introduction ‘would tend to reduce rather than increase risks’, to quote your document.

As may be apparent, I am a regular user of a variety of rights of way within England and Wales, and wish to continue without being criminalized for doing so. When on my motorcycle, (which is taxed, insured and full road legal), I am careful to obey all traffic regulations, ride courteously and always consult appropriate maps to ensure that I have legal access to the routes on which I ride. This is the case for the vast majority of trail bike owners. 

We don’t want to ride on footpaths, we don’t wish to travel along bridleways – we just want to ride legally and without persecution on long - established rights of way. As with many riders, I also take part in organised competitions and long distance events, which also appear to be at risk from the intentions of this document. Whilst we may be a minority, I am not aware of any current laws that seek to deny the rights of minority groups, or actively discriminate against them because of their modest numbers. If this is to be the way for future legislation, then there are many groups that should be very concerned about such a move! 

Annex 1 illustrates the work and effectiveness of the Killingbeck Divisional Off Road Motorcycle Unit, and it is evident that they have had success in a problem area, but I cannot see that there is any relevance to legitimate users of rights of way. The document clearly states that the unit was targeting ‘illegal use of motorcycles on rights of way and off road, including use in urban alleyways and ginnels, sensitive areas such as nature reserves’ - even if this consultation document becomes law, it will not stop this type of activity. The people detained during this initiative clearly have no problem with the morals of stealing motorcycles and cars in the first place, so it seems ludicrous to make the assumption that changing the legality of rights of way will cause them any loss of sleep. 

In case Mr. Michael has not realised, criminals do not obey the law – one could almost say it’s a requirement for the job! Does he really imagine that those arrested in Leeds are reading the consultation document and will change their behaviour because of it? The multi-agency initiative has succeeded with the existing framework of law, as quoted within the consultation document, which if anything serves to negate the need for any of the proposals, rather than support the case for their introduction.

I would also question the dubious suggestion that we cannot take account of historical precedent in relation to rights of way, and pursues an odd line of argument in relation to the conception of vehicular progress. How can one truly establish that our ancestors did not intend that if there were easier, quicker and different ways of and reasons for getting from A to B, they would not use existing routes? Similarly, denying years of use of established routes as if it has never happened seems to show an incredibly arrogant and unflattering view of our legislative system. 

Britain and it’s people are defined by our shared history, and if is foolish to imagine that this can be denied. Legislation may be able to alter the future, albeit for the better or worse, but politicians cannot change the past. History does matter – it cannot be written off at the stroke of a pen for short-term electoral gain. We should all seek to ensure that our grandchildren enjoy all the freedom that was available to our grandfathers, not see it eroded by those whose intolerance and spite seek to restrict personal choice for their own ends.

The overall tone of this document suggests that law abiding motorcyclists and 4 x 4 drivers are no better than the teenage thieves racing round the streets on stolen motorcycles, and that we are no more worth consideration than the drunk joyrider who races along country lanes before setting fire to a vehicle in a nature reserve. The proposals seek to make carefully travelling along a right of way that has existed for hundreds of years as illegal as racing an unroadworthy vehicle along a footpath in a site of special scientific interest.

I am appalled by both the thinly- veiled implications and the intolerant proposals contained within the document. Whilst it is evident that history is not a major concern to Mr. Michael, he should at the very least admit that the past teaches us time and again that if you treat people like criminals, they will behave like them. 

If allowed to become law, these proposals will not reduce the illegal and irresponsible use of mechanically propelled vehicles on rights of way or anywhere else, and indeed have every potential to increase this offence. There are thousands of people who, like myself, enjoy off-road riding or motoring - I wonder what you expect us to do if this consultation document is allowed to become law. Can it be that our government is so naďve that it thinks we will all just roll over, sell our vehicles and take up knitting? If it is decided to make ever right of way prohibited and thus to criminalize every owner of a trail bike or 4x4 vehicle, it doesn’t take much imagination to see the response that may follow.

In summation I would urge DEFRA to step back from these proposals, and concentrate their efforts in working with police, local authorities and user groups to reach sensible compromise on shared use, without hiding behind the hasty introduction of draconian and ineffective legislation. Modern government should encourage diversity, celebrate difference and promote tolerance – this document fails on all three counts.

Yours sincerely


Julian Challis

Bob Perring Classic

My first taste of the infamous BPC was a sobering experience. The lack of chitchat on the start lane should have fore warned me of the impending torture to follow. I lost 20 minutes with a engine misfire despite meticulous preparation the night before. Then found two holes on the first check to sap my strength/confidence before arriving 35 odd minutes late@ check 1. As soon as I received my timecard the steward uttered that the worse was still to come - great !

Navigated the course/obstacles well before halfway into check2 I found the mother of all ruts and managed to wedge the bike in good and firm up to the seat ! A futile attempt to lift the bike out by myself confirmed I was exhausted so then attempted to request some assistance from other passing riders. Problem was the only riders that came along were championship/expert or fast clubman and I don't expect that level of rider to risk their performance helping me dig my bike out. Thirty minutes later with no Marshalls in sight a couple of KTM (105/106 ?) riders took pity on me and assisted in the recovery operation , thanks again guys you deserve the RAK ( Random Act of Kindness ) Award of the event. After that I only managed to amuse a couple of spectators with a embarassing face plant in the mud on the ST and then limped back to Check2 to hour out.

Definitely the hardest one day enduro I have ever entered and well done to anyone who finished it. I hope to be back next year having done some serious training for the event. Thanks to everyone who helped organise and run the event and as for the check2 marshalls where were you when I needed you!

Cheers Bob

Martin Lauricella

Bob, Just finished the Bob Perring Classic and my fingers are cramping up so I must be brief, I just want to (if possible ) put a notice up on your web site somewhere so I can thank 'Mike Nicholls' for helping me out of that rut I was stuck in, if he hadn't had stopped I would still be there now puffing through my ass hole trying to lift it out! (especially when earlier on in the lap I passed and left him stuck in one of the many deep ruts (sorry mike, I owe you one!). jesus what a tough event, i can get over how much harder that was compared to the other events around, bike and body totaly buggered but happy to be a finisher. If you want to get in touch mike my e-mail address is- markd@avaloni.fsnet.co.uk thanks again bob mark daniel

Eppynt 2003

Bob,

I would just like to pass on my thanks to the whole team of organisers for the Epynt. I injured myself in the first couple of hours on the Sat, old injury, so could not continue. However the lads that I know from my area have said that they enjoyed the event. Could they please have more water in the streams for next year, as rolling in the streams was a good way of trying to cool down on the Sat.

Once again many thanks to all the organisers, marshalls etc.

Nigel Thomas

BOB, just like to say how I enjoyed the event. Plus I must say thanks to ROGER DAWSON and DAVID KNIGHT`s pit crew, as without their DUCT TAPE and CABLE TIEs I would`nt have been able to repair my KTM 540 at the end of check one--day one. The repairs lasted both days with me getting top clubman 500/4 day one (provisional), and I think the 500/4 overall. So thanks all and I`ll be back again next year. Clint Eagle.

I rode the Eppynt at the weekend and found the entire event well organised, well run and well hot! My thanks to all concerned for putting on the best event of the year so far.

Island Racing

Hi Bob, Just a word of appreciation from one of the "Championship Minders". I spent two days in excellent weather and have to say what a good job your club did. You had obviously thought out the travelling problems for fuel crews. One fuel point close to the special test action was a bonus in that heat. Maybe WTRA could just tone down the heat a bit before next year. Many thanks to all for an excellent weekend. Good atmosphere, good course, good tests. well done.

Jeff Edwards

Bob

after injuring myself in the Brekland on a KTM 520, I decided to go for something more sensible - a KTM 200. In this my first season of Enduro Riding (at the deep end), I've subsequently finished the Hafren (66th Clubman) and now the Epynt (61st Clubman). - I think the upward trend is coincidental but here's hoping for the Natterjack!!

Anyway, please pass on my thanks to the organisers for an excellent competition - simply loved the fast open moorland riding.

regards

Paul Scott

With his usual efficiency Gela had put the sidecar (number 16) into the Parc Ferme without any petrol, and as I was on time on Thursday morning and he wasn't, I pushed it down to line up for the start. So all his pit crew came down into the gathering area and starting putting in petrol. When I pointed out that this was quite illegal and we could be excluded, they rather hurriedly said that they'd meet us immediately after the start.

The bike wouldn't go within the minute, but as soon as we'd got our penalty points and pushed it clear, of course it started. Of we went to get some petrol.

Then on to the first test. You went through a field (fine), into a bit of forest (no problem) and then out into field with slopes and cambers (no grip - sliding through tapes even though going really slowly) and then more forest (slow but OK). Out on to the road and the pitcrew were there. I asked Gela if he wanted to stop, he said no, they all gesticulated madly, and as we passed them Gela looked down at the sidecar wheel and told me that we had a puncture. "Turn round" he said, so I did rather dangerously because that bit of road's bendy, but the pitcrew had already left, so we turned and followed them till it was safe to stop.

One of them said "well, that's it then, you can't fix that in an hour!" "Of course we can" I said. Then a friend in a car pulled up to see what Gela's problem was, so we sent him off to ET James's to get a tube, while we rode the outfit gently to the Llanwrthwl turning to minimise his journey back. The pitcrew got the wheel off and he returned with the tube. The electric air pump was a bit slow, but the tyre had a large rip in it and the tube began to poke through as the pressure became harder, so we had to risk running with a lower than usual pressure anyway. Just as they were putting the wheel back on someone discovered that at the panic fuelling after the start, a yellow petrol can had been used. Unfortunately this contained water not petrol. So the bike was turned upsidedown to drain out all the petrol, but it didn't and in the end they were blowing in the top of the tank to force the fuel out. This took a good 10 minutes more, and eventually we set off just after number 148, which meant we were 50 minutes late.

We went as fast as possible. Managed to overtake a couple of solos on the first green lane. Went through check 1 as soon as we got there - Gela had lost our time card! Mike Davies gave us a new one, but of course we had no idea of what our times were meant to be. I just knew that if Colin, number 177, passed us we had houred out as he was starting 59 minutes behind us, and was likely to stay on time in the dry conditions.

Somewhere after this on the road the back began to feel skittish. Eventually at the next fuel stop Gela discovered that a spoke had fallen out. I didn't dare feel to see if any others were loose! Glad I hadn't known when we were bouncing through the rough bits of the Water Splashes! The radiator fell off then.

We continued to go as fast as possible, but due to extreme lack of fitness by one o'clock I was knackered and thinking "I don't think I can manage another 3 hours of this!" In Hafren Forest there was a bumpy stick strewn track that was just horrible on the sidecar. The next bit which is probably part of the cross country test in the Hafren Enduro in 3 weeks time, was also bloody horrible on the sidecar as it had a huge ridge in the middle so the sidecar was really high and kept pushing us into the bank. It was a constant struggle.

The next bit was fine, and the next check was slack for solos so we got ourselves back to running with the 90s, about 20 minutes late. After forest, Tom's farm, more forest, we came to the second test. We did our best but we were both too tired to do more than bimble round in second gear.

One little bit more forest and we knew then that we have made it without houring out. As I approached the roundabout at Crossgates, with about 2 miles on the road to go, I was dismayed to hear a clatter start quietly and get louder and louder. As I shut off it died, and I knew it was terminal. There was no compression. So Gela got out his mobile, summoned the pitcrew to bring the trailer, and we went home.

Marrianne Walford

Getting there Was pretty uneventful. On Tuesday night I had discovered that the clutch on my 8-week-old WR250F was dragging, so after a few phone calls a stop was arranged at Ray Hockey to pick up a new set of plates. Once we arrived the plates were fitted and all three of us had our bikes in the park ferme by about 1.00pm. We meet up with the rest of our friends from the oxford area and started to try and sort out our fuelling arrangements. Next was a walk round the tests. On inspection it was decided that only one of the tests needed a full walk round as the other could be seen almost in full from the van. After a quick hike round and a lot of silly chatter it was back to the lakeside to drop off the fuel and some more silly chatter.

Thursday Quick Breakfast at the B&B and a mad rush to get to lakeside for 8.00, two of us were starting at 8.19 where as the third rider was not starting until after 10. The bike started fine and I was away on my minute. The first special test was fine and I felt my time was OK. The sun was shining and the day seemed to fly by. Even the water splashes held no problems. When I arrived at the second fuel stop things seemed to start going wrong, I had no fuel on the van for some reason, however no 25 a fellow lister gave the remainder of his can which saw me through until I saw my dad driving our van and waved him down for some fuel. The second test was a breeze and I was soon on the last section of forestry for the 1st day. It was at this point that I found my mate Phil laid in the track in front of me. He had got cross-rutted and the bike was on top of him. I picked him up and stayed with him for a few minutes. When I got to the next check I had about ten minutes to spare but there was no sign of my mate, he came through just on the minute and looked in a lot of pain. When we got back to the lakeside he could not get off the bike and his leg had swollen up like the dead Badger that was laid on the track out of Toms farm (did anyone else smell that?). So after a late night in Lan'dod hospital waiting for the doctor to attend to a very swollen leg and another friend Keith who had a suspected broken shoulder and a very swollen knee it was back to the B&B for a bit of sleep.

Friday The pain killers and the ice pack had worked a treat and Phil was ready for day 2, a quick check of the results showed that I was 8th in the sportsmen after day 1 so I was well up for putting in another good days riding. My other mate nick was also doing well in the over 40s mainly thanks to the help of Huw Watkins who had bailed him out of trouble a couple of times during the first day (spare tube and some fuel). As we started the bikes the rain also started this was a feature of the day until around 2.30 when it finally stopped and the sun came out. The first off road section was a pretty bad, all the sidecars had got stuck on the first climb and a traffic jam had formed. I looked at the other guys on my minute and we agreed that we would help each other up the hill. We lost about 20 mins doing this and it was a mad rush to get to the check on time. I had lost 12 mins by the time we got to check 2. I had also written down yesterdays times on my day 2 timecard so everything became very complicated, after some quick math's and a bit of crossing out I was back on my way. As the day went on things got wetter and wetter (and colder) the lack of riders at each check was becoming obvious. The highlight of the afternoon was a cup of tea from the Builth MMC just before the splashes, never has a cup of tea tasted so good. The last special test was a real nightmare it was a struggle to get round let alone record any sort of quick time. I was very pleased just to finish and get out of my now nearly dried out gear.

Everyone who completed the event did very well as far as I am concerned. Phil managed to finish even with his bad leg and Nick overcame a split rad hose just before the last check only losing 17 mins even though he had to spend time filling the rad with water from a puddle using his camelbak. In all another good welsh where everybody was only to pleased to help no matter what the problem was. We picked up Keith from the Hospital after day 2 he had dislocated his shoulder not broken it, but he was still in a pretty bad way.

It was nice to meet some guys from the list. Bad luck Marrianne (and Colin for that matter)

Anthony

Tuesday - fools depart

Well it started okay - Col (Spicer), Barry (Pike), Wes (Weverall) and Steve (Fuel-Man) picked me up on time in sunny Kent and we arrived at the camp-site at the start around 800pm in time to set up camp, light the barbie,have a few beers and for me to change my tires..................

5 minutes later there's a load crash and Barry appears flat on his arse out of the van, closely followed by Colin's Husaberg............... a sign of the carnage to follow

I set about tire changing with an audience. Now I may have dodgy technique, but I normally accomplish this reasonably okay. However, there's a cacophany of "use these levers", "do it this way", "what are you doing you muppet etc." and the inwevitable pinched tube ensues. Rear eventually completed in the dark. Ahem - will do the front in the morning.

Wednesday - pratting about

Next day dawns bright, font tire changed easily enough, but I'm definitely on for di** of the day award - despite having had a couple of week's off work, I need to change front sprocket, rear wheel bearings and spring link. All done and we're scrutineered for lunchtime.

Rest of the day is spent discussing how to work in enough fuel stops to satisfy Barry's Kramit's insatiable thirst - Kermit apparently will only do 20 ish miles to a tank! 135 mile loop could be interesting. Mrs Colin - Alison - arrives in the evening with the car to help with fuelling (both bikes and 'selves as several large cakes are proferred), and it's off to have a peek at the first special test (holy sh*t - this is serious), which is a combination of twisty grassy stuff across some fields, and some more twisty stuff in the forest - looks kinda fun.

Thursday - mashed legs and empty tanks

Thursday arrives, and despite having been here or 36 hours everyone's flustered, especially Barry who is still wittering on about running out of juice, leaving fuel cans in bushs etc. Eventually at about 930 the first of us are off - all in Clubman.

First few miles on road, then straight into the special. I make best use of having walked this by catching my boot on the tire marking the very first turn - sickening tearing noise as both by foot and knee are wrenched backwards. F*ck that hurt - first reaction is that I am out, but manage to ride through okay - I'm sort of alright on the pegs, but any dabs or walking are blardy painful.

Rest of the day is superb - tracks nearly all dry, day follows a tight check - easy check rhythm so time to get your breath back. Overall, the course seemed to meet Col's description as a "technical rally" - like the Hafren, but with a lot more technical forest going. We are all on schedule except Barry who lost 3 minutes when Kermit ran out of juice. Colin's grinning from ear to ear and won't stopping jibbering on. I'm up to my eyeballs in painkillers - the second special is a grassy moto-x type thing in a field, and I have to take a couple of big dabs to save a slide - tears to the eyes jobs

Get back just as it starts to rain...........................

An evening of pub nosh and beer, and a look at the Day 1 results - pretty average, Wev in the lead slightly on Silver with me a few places behind, Colin and Barry on Bronze

Friday - Flight Lieutenant Mortleman, Foot Soldier Pike, Expert Fodder

Now apparently this was the same course as the previous day, but the other way round. Did I mention the rain? My leg seems to have freed up overnight, so with about half a dozen braces and bandages, and a few metres of duck tape, I'm off again

The first check is a long one - 75 minutes including the first grassy special test. The going in unrecognisable - wet and rutted, with some seriously tricky forestry stuff. The test is more like aligator wrestling than motor-biking - stricken riders all over the place. We all lose between 15 and 50 minutes, some of us getting lost on Tom's Farm where some arrows seem to have gone missing.............. Houring out looking a possibility.

The second tight check presents a major obstacle - a brushwood and log covered climb covered in stuck riders. I meet up with Colin here - he's been riding without goggles, and his eyes look like pi** holes in the snow. We err try to find a route round - losing probably 10 or so minutes in the attempt - but give up and enter the fray. With help I get through, but Colin and Wev meet up and seeing that they will hour out, decide they've done their bit. It's still raing and I'm about 38 minutes down with 2 tight checks to go............. could be interesting.

Next tight check seems a bit firmer and I've got some rhythm going. Just relaxing on a fire road when I see a hole and have no time to react to it. The front goes in at 40ish mph and I'm hopeful of riding through - foolishly though, as i watch the clocks and fender go past beneath me. This is definitely going to hurt. I land in a bank about 20 metres down the track, and slowly to my astonishment realise nothing is seriously damaged. Helmet must me a write-off, sore shoulder and knee, but everything moves........... Gingerly get up, and wander over to inspect what must be a trashed KTM - no - it looks okay, alloy bark-buster has taken most of the impact and is well mangled, forks are twisted, but it starts okay, so looks like we're still going - slowly. Amazingly, come in using just my late minute allowance

On to Strata Florida - survival mode here, then the last tight check (Erfen Forest?) - bloody hard work, especially as I am pretty shaken up - 12 ish minutes lost. Meet Huw Watkins around here - he's been riding with no rear caliper, and has lost just a few minutes due to being lost - b**tard. I've now pretty much dropped off the back of the Clubman Class and am getting passed by fast flying experts - how do they do that? No-one gives me grief for holding them up which is nice. Then the last slack check - which again includes some real snotty stuff - and the test before arriving back a the tent. Find Barry with bloody toes in a bucket of water - he's toe butted a rock, split his boot and probably bust a toe.

So overall we have 2 DNF's and 2 lowly bloodied finishers on Bronzes - Sportsman next year perhaps?

Fabulous event - a real challenge, superb course, and if I never see another 18 inch deep snotty rut it will be too soon

Many thanks to the organisers for a great couple of days

Charlie Mortleman

Oh, dear. Pride comes before a fall, or lots of them.....

Saturday, when I spotted your MuddyStuff jeep I was on time and really enjoying the only dry Welsh I've been to, and I thought I was on for a finish for the first time in three attempts as a Sportsman. Completed the first day bang on my minute, both STs done with minimal time wasting stalls and offs (hooray for electic starts), KTM450EXC running well and it really felt good. High spots were the rocky bits at Strata Florida, great camaraderie with the other sportsmen on or around my minute (lots of time on some of the checks), even time to stop and watch a huge bird of prey circling something. Low points were some very rutted and slippery climbs up forest hillsides like the solos only part after the second special test, where I had to stop for a breather, and the seriously whoopy but rock hard tracks over moorland on what I think is known as Toms Farm. Very jarring, and I got caught out on a double whoop (going down to a streamlet with a wire grid bridge on it) when the back came up and whupped my ass so hard my feet came off the pegs and I squashed my plums on landing...

Overnight it rained.

Started the first bit mainly on road, and all OK with little rain until the first of the climbs on the tracks through bracken hillsides where all trees had long been felled. The rain had slicked the gradient so much that the sidecars (which go before the sportsmen) were getting stuck and the marshalls were already knackered pulling them up. We wasted about 15 minutes trying to get up before the marshalls redirected us back and around the hill to rejoin the route. The slippery climb out of the 2nd ST yesterday became an even more slippery descent today, and the special test motocross circuit was a morass of sliding bikes and tapes and posts flying everywhere. I couldn't even make the first hill. You couldn't trail-ride or trials-ride the course slowly at that point, the only way up was to blast it and hang way off the side, right up the seat on the tank. I don't have the technique, or the stamina by then, so I cut that bit after 15 minutes of trying and after a recovery wait I rejoined the circuit after the first big hill and trail-rode it all the way, but outside the tapes for the second big hill, to the finish. Yes, cheating I know but even if I'd got to the event finish no-one would have posted a slower time than me.

By now I was close to houring out but still in with a chance, but the next bit after the firebreaks did for me. More slippery slopes between rows of fir trees, but going down this time, but heavy rain meant I had abandoned my goggles and now my specs misted over so I couldn't see and I washed out once too often, managing to land between two trees slightly down the bank. Couldn't pick the bike up. Struggled for ages and eventually a clubman rider stopped and did it for me. I could have cried with relief - thanks again whoever you are! By now well outside houring out, still not at check 2, (but not too far away) and just too tired to continue. If I had it might have killed me (unfit 54 year old office worker) so I retired.

The event was brilliant, I just wasn't up to the standard of fitness and in some cases technique required. It was a shame about the rain, if it had stayed dry I really think I'd have got my finisher's medal. Maybe next year?

Patrick KTM450EXC

A quick e-mail to say thank you for providing such an excellent website.  I doubt you are paid for it, but know that there are people out there who appreciate the fine efforts you put into maintaining our sport and love of off-road bikes

kind regards
Squadron Leader Paul Scott
Royal Air Force Motorsports Association

Adrian Ellis 2003
Just got back from Wentworth to see your post Bob - it was much more rideable than last year - so much so that I even cleared the first lap on my minute, but things went rather downhill from there on in The course was excellent, with, as you said, no real stoppers - Straight off the start line down a drop then straight back up round an off camber set of turns to the start of the special test and then trees, trees, trees - to your left, to your right, towering above you and of course, littering the ground in the form of cut down branches, stumps and of course ROOTS ! The only 'tree free' bit was the washboard section, which was like a ploughed field (with holes) and the route was roughly perpendicular to the furrows - rather tiring ...
I had almost persuaded myself I was close to clubman level - but certainly at the AE (hey, reminds you of anything ?) I am definitely Sportsman (and very mediocre at that). Time allowance per lap was spot on - but as they laps mount up you need to be fit to stay on track. The ground was still pretty slick - even with MX tyres it was a major effort keeping the bike pointed even vaguely in the desired direction. Finished the first lap rather tired and on starting lap 2 I probably did the slowest special time of the whole field - 'slipped' in to trailriding mode after one particular incident in which I suddenly found the grip I'd been missing and looped the bike in to a tree .. (well, hard to avoid at least one of them)
Three quarters round the 2nd lap ( and by now I was riding on my own , which was lovely and peaceful with the bluebells in full bloom) when I get roosted by the front runners from the expert class. Being a mobile chicane wouldn't be so bad - it was the points where I ran out of traction or stalled right in the middle of the narrow sections that worried me.
Managed to get back to the start point in one piece about 20 mins over my minute and decided in the interests of safety (mine mostly) to retire - nothing (of course), to do with the sudden downpour or the fact I was completely knackered !
Oh well, 2 laps more than last year!
Colin McC - you wanted an idea of the event - until you 'e tried a forest enduro its hard to explain - but, whilst Tidders can be tough and unrelenting, the AE is even more unrelenting - the only way to take a breather is to stop. The course is not especially tough in itself - no huge drops or climbs, but the forest floor makes maintaining forward momentum tiring and involves a lot of footing. Still, be back next year aiming for 4 laps ;-}} - get your excuses ready early mate
Many tks to Huw and the crew - very helpful marshals even picked the bike up for me after one rather hard bike/ground interface and rode behind me for a while to check I was ok (or perhaps they thought I'd throw the towel in -}} - tks guys
Ian

Cambrian 2003
Hi Bob,
Just a note (sorry it's a bit late) to thank you and all of your organisers, helpers and marshals on the Cambrian. It was my second Cambrian this year and I must say that I had a great day out although due to my living in Guernsey it was the first time that I had ridden off road since last years Cambrian!
Anyway, thanks again for a great event and it was a pleasure to put a face to the name (Llandovery chip shop Saturday night).
Regards,
Tim Marquis Number 120

Brilliant, I thoroughly enjoyed this years event, as much if not more than past events.  I've changed from an XR400 to an R80G/S this year and this is definitely the way forward, as the course was suited perfectly to the big bikes.  So, a big thank you is in order to the organisers and keep up the good work. Phil Colclough PS Blez. You missed me.  49th Trail Bike!

Thanks WTRA for another great day out. I enjoyed this year's Cambrian even more than last year's. Although the dry conditions made this year's route easier overall, it seemed a little trickier thanks in particular to a couple of the descents. I was unlucky enough to start the tests straight after my team mate Cole 'Rodeo' Wright. He was waiting for me at the end of the first special, but roared off as I slowed up. I followed him for about 5 miles until we reached a building familiar from the start of the lap. After a few minutes we realised that we had missed a turn, and I had forgotten rule number one, never follow Wrighty on unfamiliar ground. To get back on course without going against the direction of the ride we hade to re-ride the first leg of the lap, which meant covering the first special for a second time, then finding the start of the Druid's Way which was where we went wrong. No easy liaison ride for us. We got to the start of the second special two minutes late after riding the entire lap flat out, and then both ran out of gas as we rode up into the village. That lap was real value for money. The remainder of the event went smoothly except for a couple of harmless off-piste excursions by third team member Luke Evans on the fire roads, and a failed attempt by Rodeo to get around the last water hole on the second special. While riding through the bog on the left hand side, he hit a submerged boulder and flew over the bars, straining both wrists and bruising both thighs on the bars - four days later the evidence is wincingly impressive. Following riders saw a yellow-clad figure kicking away at the starter as if his life depended on it, instead of simply the first place finish in Team Earth Wind and Fire. The two riders on vintage iron, a 400 KTM and 250 Montesa, looked like they were having a ball, the latter's flying (straight on) finish on the second special looking particularly spectacular. My Kawa KMX 200 ran like the proverbial clockwork, only overheating a bit on the last lap as the rad clogged up with mud. Suspension is a bit short of travel, but I saw 75mph on one straight stretch of fire road. We were off at the back of the field, which gave us a long, cold wait at the start. On the other hand, we saw almost everyone start, and when we reached the hardcore repairs to fire roads, tyre tracks had already been cut which must have lessened the chance of punctures. All in all, we had as good a day off road as we could want, and the B&B was good too.
Richard Hallett

Joe Stephens

Thanks to the WTRA for organising and the marshalls for educating. Looking forward to doing sportsman not vets next year, getting fitter earlier, and getting my card stamped. Only the claggy mud bits gave me hassle the rest was fanstastic including the cut forest and drops. I only did one lap next year two and a finish is the aim.

Things I learnt
1. clutch the bike on full revs to get up snotty climbs - tip from marshal that worked as i put to practice.
2. You're supposed to stop and get your card written at the check.
3. get a camelbak or something, after a couple of drinks of water after stopping i felt alot better.
4. Get out and ride more - the gym is no substitute for time on the bike.

things to work on
1. snotty claggy clay type uphills - i think it must have been pig hill!!

Thanks WTRA
george

Half a league, half a league,
Half a league onward,
All in the valley of Crychan
Rode the eighteen and hundred.
'Forward, the Perring Brigade!
Charge for the hills!' he said:
Into the valley of Crychan
Rode the eighteen and hundred.

'Forward, the Perring Brigade!'
Was there a man dismay'd ?
'Not if they're game enough!'
Perring had thunder'd:
Their's not to make reply,
Their's not to reason why,
Their's but to do and die:
Into the valley of Crychan
Rode the eighteen and hundred.

Tree roots to right of them,
Deep ruts to left of them,
Mud climb in front of them
Energy plunder'd;
O'er precipice, down dell,
Boldly they rode and well,
Into the jaws of Death,
Into the mouth of Hell
Rode the eighteen and hundred.

Paddl'd all their boot-soles bare,
Splatter'd by the roost-filled air
Spinning on the tree roots there,
Bogging down goodly, while
All the world wonder'd:
Experts gunning all their poke
Through the boiled bikes they broke;
Sportsman and Clubman
Reel'd from the burnt 2-stroke
Shatter'd and sunder'd.
Then they rode another lap, but not
Not the eighteen and hundred.

Tree roots to right of them,
Deep ruts to left of them,
Mud climb in front of them
Energy plunder'd;
O'er precipice, down dell,
While bike and rider fell,
They that had rode so well
Came thro' the jaws of Death,
Back from the mouth of Hell,
All that was left of them,
Left of eighteen and hundred.

When can their glory fade?
O the wild charge they made!
All the world wonder'd.
Honour the ride they made!
Honour the Perring Brigade,
Noble eighteen and hundred!

(with apologies to Lord Tennyson)

Patrick James

I thought it was an excellent event, if a little daunting at times. Forestry timecard enduros are the real enduros in my opinion, long may they remain.

Best regards,
Phil Powell.

Would you please pass my most appreciative thanks to Bob Perring, the rest of the team and the marshals, all of whom did a fantastic job in putting on a 'real good un' which I can't wait to have another crack at next year. It was personally very nice for me to get a chance to try my hand at the closest modern day thing to the old 'BEACONS', "A REAL MANS EVENT" " I USED
TO LOVE THE BEACONS" as my father still refers to it today, following his encounters with the crychan back in the late 70's / early 80's.

Thanks and Best Regards
Andy Richardson

Firstly many thanks to all involved in the enduro briliant course well laid out and a challenge (think thats a understatement ) a good test and showed up my lack of fitness. Just checking the results and it shows me as a dnf but i did actually finish about 1hr 20 mins late being back with the 500 4strokes that made me very late into the last check possibly the last person. The ladies at the check will remember me as my friends were waiting for me woundering if they should send out a search party but i turned up handed in my time card and picked up my trophy. could you please ckeck time cards as after all that hard work it would be nice to be classified as a finisher. Well hope the event is run again next year, ill have to work on my fitness so idont hour out by then ill be in the over 40s and i might get in the top three
many thanks
Paul Reich
No 219

Spent a pleasant evening in the company of Howard and Anita, firstly in the Castle, listening in to the organiser's comments, then in the Royal Oak where we were staying. After a good wholesome meal and a nightcap, we turned in fairly early, better to face the day ahead. Sunday dawned clear and bright, and filled with optimism and fried breakfast we headed to the spot on the map that was to be the start area. Met Patrick, who was fashioning a sprocket guard from an old paint container. As the Berg somewhat reluctant to fire up of late, I thought I would give her a run. Five minutes of kicking later the engine started. Not the best of beginnings. Howard and I scruted the bikes, collected our time cards, and sat down to panic. My start time came around far too quickly, but thankfully the Berg fired first kick. Patrick was No 269, I was 270 on the same minute, and Howard 271, one minute behind. Within yards of the start came an indication of the day to come. A snotty descent, which cut across the slope, that Patrick was already receiving assistance on. I decided to hop off and drag the bike round, which worked better. The next section was a deep, rutted gradient, which I ended up stuck in. Not too much effort to get out, but the first of many. A fairly easy ride to the site of the special test start, not timed this lap, so tried to remember lines so I would be able to do a relatively quick test next lap
(Ha!) Spent the next couple of miles in the company of Patrick, on the fire roads, and through some gentle forestry, until we came to a loose rocky climb. I picked the wrong line and had to wait behind another rider, while Patrick sailed up on the right hand side. After that, the rest of the course was something of a blur. None of it was impossible, there was none of the deep water or bottomless bogs which I had feared. It was just an unrelenting succession of root infested ruts, with the odd bit of rut infested roots thrown in for good measure. Some of the downhills were pretty fierce, but with the engine braking of the four stroke and some gentle front squeeze, I got down in one piece on most of them. The Berg dragged me up the hills
without drama, finding traction on everything but roots, and even managing on some of those. I saw Patrick again briefly, he having just cleared a cross slope root tangle as I was waiting my turn. Another Berg rider, 170 I think, told me that his had boiled up earlier. Thank goodness mine hadn't done that I thought. Five minutes, and much paddling later, I too was enveloped in a
cloud of sweet smelling steam. Cup of tea anyone? I left the bike stood in a rut to cool off, while I looked for the easiest way out of the trees to where I could get some air flowing through the rads. Some of the early numbers came past, and I watched how they weaved and bucked through the roots. More speed and momentum, and the skill to keep it all together. I tried and nearly ended up in a tree! Stick to paddling. When I reached the first check, I was nearly
half an hour late. Thought about putting a spurt on to try to get back on time, then reality hit me round the ear in the shape of a fir tree and I realised that one lap of this was probably all I could handle. So, on my weary way I trundled, surprising myself as I cleared some serious looking
obstacles with ease, then despairing as I ground to a halt, or fell off, at the slightest thing. A couple of marshals stopped to see if I was all right, as I leant against a pile of logs doing a goldfish impersonation. They cheered me up by pointing out that the finish was almost in sight, but that I should miss out the last climb as it was an utter b***ard. There was another marshal at the foot to direct sportsmen round this, onto the fire road that led to the refuelling area and the end of the lap. It then became apparent why, despite all my stops, I hadn't seen Howard. He and Anita were waiting for me, Xavier's (don't ask) clutch having decided that enough was enough,
thus ending Howard's day. I handed in my card to have it confirmed that I had "houred out", a fact which neither surprised, nor indeed disappointed me. As I rode back to the car, there were plenty of bikes on trailers, so I felt a little better. Post race analysis of my trip computer tells an interesting tale. I covered 24 miles, at an average speed of 12mph, having been moving for 1 hr, 54 minutes. Note I said moving. The fact that I houred out means that I spent at least half an hour not moving at all ! In conclusion, the event lived up to its reputation. It was bloody hard. Not
impossible, but very physical. Out of 24 miles, at least one of them was spent off the bike, and another 12 with both feet off the pegs paddling furiously. I saw the championship riders were expected to do 4 laps. That would put them on a par with Superman then.

Mark Gaskell

What an event This one really sorted the men from the boys. This event was what the word enduro was made for. Hope there's more to come. Well done HM

Dear Bob, just a (quick) reply to the "Mark Chapman-Monk's Trod" email that you sent out. I know that Mr Chapman states that they have enough correspondence, and please stop sending stuff, but as someone who worked for a local council and knows how they operate, I would advise very strongly, that people keep sending in their letters etc. Why ? If the letters etc dry up, then the Council justifies their continued closure with the excuse that there was only ever a limited number of complaints which dried up rapidly. IF RIDERS AND READERS DO NOT KEEP UP THE PRESSURE THE CLOSURE WILL REMAIN. After having lived through my council trying to close something the public wanted; and seen what lengths a department head will go to for their own political advantage and personal glory, I can truthfully advise that only sustained and relentless pressure will result in Monk's Trod ever re-opening. Should you ever get lucky enough to get an inside line on this, you will find that there is someone in the Council, with enough clout to completey ignore what riders/public want. One thing which helps, is to keep requesting that the Council keep a record of how many protests they received (whether duplicates or not - they will try and claim that a "form letter" sent by various people is only one letter as the content is identical) and publishing how many were received. They will try to avoid giving you this information. Also get riders who protested to put their names on a list, so we can argue with the Council as to how many protests were sent. All very time consuming, but the Trod will never re-open without enourmous pressure from user groups. I would also warn, that even if it does re-open, there will also always be a Council motion trying to re-close it - I learned first hand that these issues never die, as the situation I was involved with has been going on nearly twenty years and is still boiling away ! Enough already - I have no objection to you showing this letter to other people by the way - and please keep the stream of info coming.
Best Regards, Cat Sullivan-Pavey

THE BRITISH ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP PROBLEM

There is at present a serious problem obtaining British Championship Results & Standings.
To date we have at the ACU only received the top 15 positions in class from the Catterick Enduro - and it appears that in one Championship class at least these were incorrect.
This means that no work can be done on compiling the final table -a mammoth task in itself - until we receive the results of top 15 in each class from the organisers..
There have been several calls/emails from riders pointing out that they have appeared in the wrong class etc in results of some events.
Only the organisers have the entry forms etc - and only they can really check that riders are in capacity class as entered. Only they can adjust and produce their results.
If a rider has changed capacity class between events -it is their responsibility to inform organisers as per rules etc - if not the problem is theirs.
If they have correctly entered -they should surely then appear in the correct category in the results.
With no results to date - there are no official standings.
What worries me further is that I have received lots of phone calls from riders who have already determined their individual positions etc from the results sent to them , and are considering riding different classes etc for last round -or perhaps not going -
My message is beware - until organisers can send us results - in suitable format/presentation there are no official positions - and in the case of results of top 15 in a class not being available - the T & E Committee would have the very real problem of having to decide if that round was null and void.
It is all very well us all wishing for good accurate timing of S/Tests - but equally we require a good accurate set of Championship positions. We have written to each Organiser requesting these - but so far nothing except Catterick - which as stated have had to be sent back.
Equally despite good publicity from Bob Mullins on site and also in press - dates/ applications for 2003 have not been put forward.
The calendar - as requested by riders/organisers/centres needs to be
finalised in next week to 10 days - so far we have few if any applications
We do have other organisers wishing to run National ( Non Championship ) on dates
which we suspect the current British Champ Organisers may want
It is not fair to keep these other clubs waiting as they also have to book dates with landowners etc -and wish do finalise their calendars.
John Collins ACU Trials & Enduro Committee

Eppynt 2002
Just a little note to say well done to everyone involved in the eppynt what a fabulous weekend. The course was excellent for us mere spectators. A fitting tribute to JD.

Bob,
Good write-up, thanks. What about the part were you had to walk about 50 yds back up the hill after stacking it on lap 1, day 1.  'Twas me with the KTM and the loose handlebars. Thanks for stopping, I eventually bodged it but I lost about 30 mins. Hats off to WTRA for an excellent event. I'm particularly impressed with the effort that must have gone into building a sandwich of loose turf, PTFE and Teflon for the first test, which must set some kind of friction co-efficient record. Seriously though, it was the best event of the year, as usual.  The best course, the best marking, the best check times, the best paddock, the best riding distance (for clubmen).
Gary Clarke

A huge thankyou to everyone involved in this years Eppynt. All your time and effort has paid off with a brilliant 2 day event. Great course, great marshalling, great organisation, great spirit to the event.
Thanks all
Rob Loupart
PS: I couldn't shift the duvet on monday morning either Bob! And the stairs felt like a painful reminder of the lumpy descent before check 2