8th February 2015: Gorrick Spring Series Round 2, Crowthorne Wood, Berkshire
Rider Report by Seth Kanaris, Juvenile Boys Category
So today was my second race of the Gorrick Spring Series, and I must say that I was quite nervous about it beforehand. Despite having trained really hard in anticipation, I was just a little edgy over the course itself as some of those climbs are absolutely brutal – and the fact that I was sick didn’t really help either!
Seth in action!
Well, on the bright side, I had (like I said) trained really hard every day, and I also have a new bike! Having a fully working bike that doesn’t try to kill you is always a bonus, as is the fact that it’s an awesome 140mm travel full suspension – great for getting over those roots and bumps! It’s burly enough for when I take it for some downhill abuse, but light and efficient enough for cross-country, as demonstrated today! Well, I’m taking it to Aston Hill on Saturday, so I’ll test it then!
We arrived late at Crowthorne, so it was very stressful trying to get towards the front; and I also had no time to say hi and everything else. So I think that when the guy blew the horn, I got the worst start ever! Seriously, I couldn’t get past anyone, and I couldn’t even clip in. I absolutely hate that start anyway, because it’s about 2 seconds of fire road and then the climb just hits you! Well, from what I heard at the end of the race, that was the general consensus, so it’s not just me complaining…
The race itself went reasonably well, I thought. I like some bits of the course, but like I said at the start, some of those climbs are absolutely brutal! In the end, I came seventh, which obviously isn’t the victory I hoped for, but I am in the top half! I did give it my all, though, and considering I keep improving as I go along, I am satisfied with my result.
Anyway, it was great to see so many Slipstreamers there as usual, but I can only hope more will be inspired and coming to these XC races! They really are a great way to test your technical skills, and at the end of it you really do feel a sense of achievement. The next Gorrick race is on the 8th March at Porridgepot, with the 1st race of the Southern XC Series at Black Park on the 1st March – 2 weekends in a row should be some great racing!
Seth came 7th in his age category – well done!
Full set of round 2 results here + series placements listed here