Day Three - MacDonald going for gold

After the opening two days of the 2010 Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT), local hero Gary MacDonald - Gas Gas has once again put himself amongst the front runners thanks to a couple of strong initial performances. Twenty-six year old MacDonald from Kinlochleven carries the weight of the nation on his still relatively young shoulders as he bids to become the second ever Scot to win this World famous event. To date, as the trial looks to celebrate its one hundredth birthday next year, Bob MacGregor back in 1935 remains the only home victor of the SSDT.

After going clean on day two, MacDonald now sits in a close third place, which matches the best ever result he achieved overall in 2003 when he actually led the trial right up to the closing stages. So once again the spot light is on Gary, and he is having to absorb the pressure that comes with it. "Yes there is a lot of pressure on me, and I am not really a fan of it. Ever since my ride in 2003 it has now become a part of the event for me. Before then I could really enjoy the trial, as there was nothing expected of me."

"Since 2003, I have been learning to get my head around the pressure and trying to just have a good week. Since swapping to Gas Gas over the winter things have been going well. I have had the bike since January and I am really pleased with it, especially the power of the engine, it couldn't be any better. It took me a little time to adjust, but now I am really enjoying riding it, and again especially this week."

"As I am not a World championship contender this is without doubt by far the biggest event I have got a chance of winning. This week I am up against the best riders in the World, who ride as a full time job, unlike me. All I can do is to try to keep cool for six days, which I have not managed to do in previous years."

"I think I am more mature now and I am taking each day as it comes, rather than thinking too far ahead. In 2003 it all got to me, I didn't like having the yellow leader's number plate or the pressure that came with it, but now I am older and perhaps more prepared."

"All I can do is to try my best to get another good score today and then worry about Thursday and so on, and let's see where that leaves me on Saturday morning."

"Even yesterday I felt quite emotional as that was only the second time I have managed to clean a whole day, the last time again being on a Tuesday, but back in 2003."

"Whilst I have to stop myself, it would be an absolute dream come true if I could win it, but if I am honest it is a big ask for me against professional opposition."