Stevens Enduro, Queen Elizabeth Country Park

I missed last years event as I was away so this was one for this years calendar especially as it's on my doorstep. The event was put on by Hargroves Cycles and was part of the QE Cyclefest which allowed you to mock the beardy-wierdies who were demo-ing 650B and 29ers for the first time.

Dyfi Enduro 2013

The Dyfi Enduro is probably the most exciting non-competitive race of the year. I've not come across another event that can match it for the arduous climbs, exhilarating descents and breathtaking views. Throw in some razor sharp rocks and anything can happen! Entry went live at the start of February and sold out in a record 20 minutes showing just how popular this event is.

Southern XC Rd 1 - Matterley Basin

I haven't raced the mtb in a while so decided to have a go at the Southern XC events. Matterley Basin is a new course for 2013 designed by UK Biking and is better known as the British Motocross Grand Prix venue. The week before the event was pretty appalling weather-wise and  it should have been a complete wash out but on arrival it was clear to see that the course had held up well judging by the look of the other racers. With the sun out there was also a great risk of racing in shorts and s/s jersey! 

Dipping my toes in - Portsmouth Easter Circuits

Given the weather over the past few months I've been riding the road bike a lot, who knew that when I bought the retro Giant Peloton I'd enjoy it so much. It's been my primary source of training,although not ideal,  for the upcoming mtb races. A friend bought a road bike a few months back and did really well at the Mountbatten Circuits. A closed circuit event - what's not to like?

Merida Brass Monkeys rd 2

It's been a few months since my last race which ended in disappointment due to illness so I wanted to leave 2012 on a racing high. I knew a few people who were racing the Brass Monkey round in Deepcut, Surrey and went for it. I was familiar with the course having races there for the Are You Tough Enough races so knew the course would be fast and fun.

Rowans Hospice - The Ruby Ride

A requirement of my work is to periodically undertake pre-qualification questionnaires in order to get get onto the tender lists for the local Housing Associations. One of the questions was what do we do for charity. We've always given to charity however we decided that this year we would make more of an effort and actually take part. Kenn, the managing director has always given generously to Rowan Hospice and therefore it seemed fitting to take part in one of their events.

Brighton Big Dog 2012

In the week leading up to the event I could feel another cold starting and it was evident on my mid-week commutes that all the energy in my legs had disappeared. All that was left was give my legs a  few days rest and hope for the best. In the opening miles my fears were becoming a reality. Climbs seemed longer and harder than those on the Dyfi Enduro and all I could do was spin my 29tooth chain ring with a low cadence whilst watching the other riders passing me with ease. The first downhill brought a welcome respite although my slow start meant I was in the middle of the bottle necking. The second climb, although short, brought some hope when I managed to overtake a few people again, not exactly strong legs but better than the first few miles. I managed to complete the first lap in quite a respectable time considering being held up on the singletrack sections.