Race 25-3-07
In our first xc race of the season we arrived at Black Park Country Park with a sense on anticipation and apprehension. It was Chris's first chance to try out xc racing over marathons and for me it was a change from my more favoured marathon races. With this in mind we knew that the race was going to be as much about gaining experience and putting some fast mile into the legs as it was about the results.
Held on a 2.5 mile circuit, the first two things that struck me about the course were the lack of hills and the high percentage of singletrack. It was a well thought out course and offered those with little racing experience a chance to give it a go, meanwhile allowing more experienced speed kings to battle it out.
Competing in the open race category there was a wide range in the abilities of the riders, which was clear from the offset as we sprinted off the line and attempted to complete our 8 laps of the course.
Sadly for Chris his race was prematurely ended when a collision with another rider on lap 2 sent him over the bars and injuring his knee.
As for me, well I kept plugging away, but struggled with the relentless high pace (my speed endurance needs some work). It was disappointing for me as I felt strong in terms of my riding but I just couldn't compete at the front. It did however give me a chance to put in some fast miles and gain some more racing experience. But expect to see me return to train for my more favoured marathon races. Chris however, well he will be back to try his luck at future XC races...
Overall the race was well organized and enjoyable to complete. Just a shame about the results, but we will be back stronger next time.
Results can be found at: http://www.wdmbc.co.uk/downloads/BlackPark2007.html
Mark,
bucksmtb.co.uk