The ‘secret trail’ was originally started several years back as a way of getting from the Red Run over towards the finish of the Black Run, avoiding the more technical end of the Red downhill. A lot of the fundamental work had already been done – cutting a bench into the hill and creating some swooping turns on the way back down – but there was still a lot of trail to dig and more to reinforce and repair.

3 groups worked the morning clearing, reinforcing and digging trail. The sheer enthusiasm and hard work of the group was overwhelming, and by 1pm it became clear that we would actually achieve something that had been considered only a slim possibility at 10am: today we would open a completed track.

By 1.30pm the crew were packing up and the tape at the trailhead was removed – it was done. Aston Hill had a new trail.

 

Chairman Rich fired up the BBQ and prepared a meat-feast, Hillbillies sat down and ate in a haze of steaming tea and the younger riders downed chocolate cake before getting kitted up to head back onto the Hill. It was early afternoon and there was still quite a bit of daylight left – it seemed a shame to waste it. And who could blame them? There was a brand new trail to ride!

It goes without saying – a massive, massive thanks to all who showed up and dug, especially those from further afield (including the guys from Tidworth Freeride). It was a great morning – hope you all enjoyed it!