The penultimate round of the British Mountain Bike Series (BMBS) used the World Cup course at Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire. The course was basically the WC course but without the fun park known as Dixons Hollow.  On practice day, I planned to do just one lap since I know the course fairly well but couldn`t resist doing a second! It is a brilliant course.

Race day

Since we would enter the singletrack fairly quickly, it was important to get a good start. Therefore I started warming up a bit earlier to ensure my muscles were ready! Unfortunately I didn`t get the start I wanted despite pushing hard. I’m still not sure how aggressive I should be at the start and I had to settle for my position going into the singletrack. I didn`t let this get to me and instead focused on staying on the wheel of the rider in front. There would be opportunities to pass shortly. The pace was relentless as always. As an opening appeared I pushed hard to make up a few places. Through the singletrack I tried to stay smooth...dropping down worry gill and through the gully before climbing back up for the medusa. I was riding well and staying close to the riders in front. Then the big climb. Those in front attacked. I tried to go with them but couldn`t. I dug deep to minimise the gap. By the end of the lap I was hurting.

The second and third lap I made pace with other riders and positions seemed to change constantly. On the fourth lap I was in a group with three other riders when my chain came off on a short climb that I then had to run. This left me chasing and although I got close to them, I never got back on. The final laps left me questioning why I do this as I buried myself! I made my way around the course to cross the line in 14^th position.

I was a little disappointed in the result as I was aiming for a top 10. However I went into the race feeling tired after a hard week`s training and gave everything I had on the day. Last year I only managed 27^th so hopefully that indicates progress.

Race report and results can be found HERE

My next event is the British Champs being held at Pippingford Estate, near Gatwick on the 18^th July. More details can be found HERE