The somewhat cold conditions at Val de la Mare did not deter 54 hardy youngsters from tackling the superb mountain bike course. Humps, jumps and twists and turns challenged the five age groups during the exciting afternoon of racing.

The 12-14 and 10/11 year age groups were mixed to make a group of 11 riders and a charge to the first corner saw George Milner and Oliver Lowthorpe lead their respective classes. George was in fine form to ride to another victory but Ben Le Brocq was also working hard to secure 2nd spot with Jason Banks taking 3rd. Oliver maintained his lead on his new bike but Oliver Turner pushed him hard and took 2nd place. In third was Hugh Percival. In the girls class, Amber Smith was on good form taking 1st place with newcomer Katherine Gibaut enjoying the race and taking 2nd place.

The 8/9 year age group, with 23 riders, including 7 girls again made up the largest class of the day. The start line was packed with riders jostling for position ahead of their 5 lap race. Jack Lutz was quickest off the line with Sam Maher and Luc Mon Petit Le Brun in hot pursuit. But it was Luc who saved the best for last and took the lead in the later stages to secure a great victory. Jack was 2nd and Sam riding well for a solid 3rd. In the girls class Emma McGinley had a great start and was 5th overall after the first lap and maintained her pace for victory. Another rider at her first event, Bethan Hamon had possibly the best ride of the day to take 2nd place in class with Indi Malzard maintaining good pace to take 3rd.

In the 6/7 age group 11 riders took to the start line. Elliot Stead was the boy on form and had soon taken a sizable lead and never looked back to take 1st place. Ollie de Sousa was enjoying himself in 2nd place and Oliver Daniels was a reliable 3rd. Aimee Hugh suffered problems in the early part of the race but was still top girl.

In the 5 and Under class, Malo Mon Petit Le Brun was soon up to race pace and again maintained position for victory. George Daniels was well suited to the course and took 2nd with a spirited ride by Zack Hamon securing him 3rd spot. In the Girls class Nicole Hamilton was top performer and Katie Le Rougetel (with a little help from Dad), a superb 2nd. A total of 7 riders were in the class.

The club would also like to extend it thanks the landowner for providing the venue and the series sponsor, Mark Pickford Cycle Shop for their support.

Thanks to Michael Boarer for organising this event