Snapper Chick @ Forest of Dean

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BY: Janet Burroughes

Published: 18th June, 2012

Tempting to headline this report with "Snapper Chick rides where elite/expert riders walk".  Of course you're not expected to believe that, before the weekend I wouldn't have either.

We were fortunate enough to ride the course on Friday afternoon.  Despite heavy showers, and some mud and slippery roots, I was delighted to stay on the bike for the whole circuit.  Also fun to spot a large family of wild boar nibbling the race marking tape.  Jay commented on being pleased how well course conditions had held up to the wet weather.  If ever there was a case of speaking too soon that would have to be it!

Just when it was all going so well, race day dawned indescribably wet.  Imagine falling into a river, whilst being pressure washed and having mud rubbed into your eyes and you'll get some, slight idea of what it was like.  James Horton, riding for Cannondale racing, and second in the elite/expert race, shouted "I love mud".  A good thing someone does!   Most rider's faces were set in grim determination as the mud turned to the consistency of soup. 

The course, which we thoroughly enjoyed riding the previous afternoon, became ever more sticky and resistant until…  You've guessed it even elite/expert riders were seen walking up one of the hills.

Credit to everyone (riders, marshals, supporters, organisers and anyone else present) who avoided drowning.  Also serious respect to Jane, Maddie and Jay for continuing to help everyone with a friendly smile, whilst withdrawing race HQ to the back of Certini's van before the tent completely washed away.

Snapper Chick

 

And later on Saturday afternoon.....