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In cricket they say rain stopped play, at Norwood Teversal on Sunday rain tried its level best, but the hardened enduro bunch of rideoffroadUK supporters got stuck into what was for most the hardest event they have ever ridden. With a superb flowing woodland course plotted and marked, the weekend began on Saturday with a Wayne Braybrook training day. Conditions were almost perfect and the training session left those who attended with yet another handful of new skills to work with. After checking the latest weather reports late Saturday, the ride crew took the decision to ease the lap slightly to accommodate the huge entry of riders who had taken advantage of the clubs pre pay discounted on line entry system. At 6.30am Sunday, as the ride organisation wheels started to turn, so did the weather. For almost 8 hours we were treated to rain, sleet, snow and cold conditions, then just as the final race drew to a close the rain stopped!
Youth A class honours went to Dolton Shannon who showed awesome determination to nip the win from the fast starting Nathan Ball by a mere one second! These two top Youth A riders are set for a season long battle which is hotting up as each race approaches. Brandon Sharples took the overall Youth victory as well as Youth B honours. This young man has a great Hare & Hounds career ahead of him if he continues to improve at the current rate. With a full start line ready and waiting for the first Adult event of the day, it was always going to be a tough event as the rain continued to fall. An extra pre event briefing outlined to competitors the importance of trying to keep the bike moving and grind out a finish in the super tough conditions. All riders did an amazing job with the conditions worsening as the clock ticked away. As the Beginners struggled around the now churned up Norwood track, Wayne and Sonya Braybrook made an executive decision to cut the race short by 15 minutes allowing riders to get a finish rather than not being able to complete their last lap. Jade Shaw grabbed a maximum point's haul in the Beginner's class, followed home some 8 minutes later by Lewis Bingham. The Ladies honours went to the sheer class on the day that was served up by Emma Ball, revelling in the conditions the Lancashire lass put on a great show to take the win. Local Over50 ace Steve Shaw won his "home" round showing his years of trials skills have not gone to waste. Bill Howe came home second and the back from injury Steve Burton took third place back home to Buxton. The Sportsman championship standings had a bit of a shake up with Adam Lovett taking the win from a hard charging Ben Clark. Andy Kaye ensured his 5 lap tally was enough to net the final podium place on the day.
Pure class of the day went to the on form Expert rider Tom Healey. Tom used his 300 KTM to great effect in the almost extreme conditions to earn his second championship race victory of the season. Despite getting to within 30 seconds of Healeys lead, rideoffroaduk team rider Scott Austin couldn't quite get on terms due to a fading clutch in the latter stages of the race. Newcomer Jeremy Callow showed his class by netting the final podium spot in the difficult conditions. Due to the difficulties with paddock and track conditions on the day, rideoffroadUK would like to express their gratitude to all who attended for their patience and understanding in what was the wettest, muddiest event ever for the rideoffroadUK organisation. March 25th with see Round 4 running at the Carlton Grange plantation where a concrete paddock and all weather track will see no such problems even if we do have rain. Huge thanks to all the marshals and helpers for their continued hard work. Event information and discounted pre paid event entries click the link below www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Sunny Scunthorpe serves up a feast of Hare & Round 2 of the IOPD Doodson UK National Hare & Hounds Championship headed for Lincolnshire for what turned out to be an event blessed with bright blue skies with an event schedule rammed full of healthy competition across all the well supported classes. The Youth riders were first up on Sunday morning for a one hour event around the vast quarry based venue near Scunthorpe, with an open wide marked track on offer, the youth riders made light work of the two thirds lap length during the one hour race. Robbie Wallace was pushed hard all race by Doltan Shannon who is now looking like his former self as his confidence returns to business at usual levels. Luke Owen grabbed third spot after a trouble free ride. Fresh from his Sheffield SX ride Saturday evening, Brandon Sharples showed true class taking the Youth B victory, his was only matched by Ben Turner who ended up a mere 4 minutes away from the win. Upgraded for 2012 Dawson Marriott earned Mansfield Motorcycles a fine third place trophy.
Girvan took the Beginners holeshot on his KTM250, he was able to make this a memorable event as he took third place at the end of the race for his efforts. He was narrowly beaten by Oliver Allbones who took runner up spot, Jade Shaw grabbed the overall and in doing so shakes up the standings after only two rounds. In the Ladies class Jade Gordon showed why she took the 2011 Championship, finishing one lap up on the other Ladies, Jade's pace couldn't be matched on the day. Katy Bullock set her championship aspirations clear as she grabbed runner up spot and some useful championship points. Becky Dawson got stuck in and ground out a superb third place on her new 200 KTM. Sportsman overall honours went to young Jack Stafford, Jack has been improving week on week, and finally at round two he hit top spot. Brad Thornton was delighted to take home second place, with Ian McMahon coming home in third place after having to stop for clean gloves. With the morning results and presentation completed it was time for the big boys to play out. RideoffroadUK team riders Rob Dawson and Scott Austin led the 20 strong expert's class away from turn one. In the Clubman class John Steeples grabbed the holeshot and kept superb consistency to take the overall clubman class victory. He was chased all the way by Karl Waltho who only missed the win by 44 seconds such is the level at the top of the class. Just over one minute further back Neil Marshal took a well earned third place.
With all races running to schedule, and a great days racing had, we look forward to the superb Norwood Teversal venue on March 4th, where a more traditional Hare & Hounds track will be the order of the day for round three of the championship. Massive thanks go to the super efficient medics who dealt with Ben Hamilton's start crash in the most professional manner. Get well soon Ben. Thanks to all our hard working marshals, and thanks to Tony and Kev for keeping the track in order all day. Results Event information www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Extreme Start to RideoffroadUK Championship on the Lancashire Hills Report: ROR Media - Photos: CH Images Winter enduros are always going to be tough going due to the ground conditions, more and more riders are swinging towards tough events for a sense of shear achievement at the end of the days racing. Well that's what was on offer at round one of the RideoffroadUK 2012 Doodson UK Hare & Hounds Championship at Lee Dell Rochdale. Wayne Braybrook and his trusted team of course builders had spent the week leading up to the event completely changing the track, moving onto the longer grassland areas of the Lee Dell complex away from the frozen tracks and trails. Yes as the day progressed across the 3 race format, the winter weather struck again with freezing conditions and low visibility fog being the obstacle of the day. A "ride safe" briefing prior to all 2012 races will now be added to the usual event briefings, helping riders understand track conditions, and possible technical areas is something the rideoffroadUK organisation are now working on getting across to riders of all abilities. The Youth event planned for a 9am start had to be put back 30 minutes to allow the fog to lift, as it lifted the superb line up of youth riders ripped off onto the Lancashire hills to battle the same track as the adults for a one hour race. All they dug deep and worked towards a good race finish, Nathan Ball took a convincing win on his KTM in Youth A, Dalton Shannon is using events during 2012 to get back to race pace after last years injury, Dalton grabbed a useful 2nd spot, ahead of an ecstatic Ronnie Hill who was over the moon with getting third spot for his efforts. In the Youth B class, MX and Supercross ace Brandon Sharples showed his class taking the win ahead of Josh Haithe, with Elliot Bradshaw taking third place.
Running behind schedule a packed morning event for the masses was flagged away around 45 minutes late due to the early morning fog. Peter Archer made the trip from Solihull in the Midlands worth while as he took his shiny new Sherco 250i off to a flying start ahead of most 2 strokes! As the race progressed all riders were having problems negotiating a big hill climb section next to the lower fishing lodge, despite the track builders having carved a new road in, the cold conditions made some sections polish up making it difficult for those with not so perfect throttle control. Taking care across some icy paths, all riders coped very well with conditions to make this first round one where their own championship points tally got off to the start they wanted. The RORUK marshals who helped on this section of the course were solely responsible for keeping the entry flowing and making sure the event ran almost to full duration, well done to all of them and a massive thank you!
The afternoon race was planned to run for 2 hours, but because of the extreme weather conditions it had to be cut short at one and a half hours due to heavy track degradation and a serious lack of visibility with the hill fog coming back in. This unanimous decision was taken to ensure no riders started the season with injuries due to the worsening conditions. As riders passed through Lap scoring the clerk of the course asked almost all the entry what conditions were like, feedback from all of them was that they were happy to get a shorter event in safe conditions rather than just riding round in less than perfect vision. At the finish flag riders had nothing but praise for the efforts made to make this event happen. Thankfully the event medics had very little to deal with on the day, this was due to a professional route plan on the track, coupled with race directors who see the bigger picture, the picture is that the 2012 IOPD Doodson UK National Championship is set to be one full of hard fought battles across all classes once the UK weather fines up. Round 2 takes place this weekend 19th February at Scunthorpe where normal racing will resume. Book in online www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events or call Sonya on 07576 095137
RideoffroadUK start the 2012 IOPD Doodson UK National Hare & Hounds Championship high on the Lancashire hills at the popular Lee Dell venue - Re Scheduled for February 12th Due to the Adverse weather conditions experienced last Sunday. As we enter the fifth year of rideoffroadUK enduro events, we had no option last Sunday but to postpone the event for one week. Wayne Braybrook added "I would not have been happy riding in those icy & snowy conditions myself, so why would I ask our club members to?" The decision was made with 100% competitor safety in mind, we will have a thorough track inspection this week on Thursday 9th February, and then confirm via our website ( www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk ) the full event schedule for round one. Weather permitting, the course for Round 1 makes a welcome return to the east loop including the MX track and open moor land going. This outfield loop has not been used since August 2011. It always proves popular with riders giving lots of track to get going and open up on. With on going ground works at Lee Dell taking shape, Wayne Braybrook has yet another fresh new track already set up to keep riders on their toes. New start area, New compact Pits area, and a dedicated Spectator "track safe zone" to view the event from a location close to the action, and the catering unit! All entries from February 5th will be carried over automatically, anyone who CAN'T ride please contact Sonya Braybrook immediately on 07576 095137 or email info@rideoffroaduk.co.uk For Round one, until the clocks change, we will be running the Youth event on Sunday morning at 8.30am, this will be followed by the highly popular Sportsman, Beginner, Over50 and Ladies race starting at 10am. After a short break for results and presentation, the Expert, Over40 and Clubman riders will hit the dirt for 2.5 hours around the Lancashire hills. Camping available, non members are welcome, and day licences can be
paid for on the day. Pre booking advised via www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events
The Kirton Raiser Results High winds coupled with a bright sunny day offered a mixture of conditions for competitors and spectators as the 2012 rideoffroadUK organisation fired into life. A brand new venue near Scunthorpe, which has been a work in progress for 3 years, finally came to fruition for a pre championship warm up event. With the start of the 2012 IOPD Doodson UK championship only two weeks away, the idea of a warm up event worked perfectly as a packed start line were ready to get back in the enduro XC groove before February 5th. Shortly after 8.30am a superb line up of keen youth riders set off for a one and a half hour event. On his return to full fitness Dalton Shannon took the holeshot and led for most of the race, as fatigue set in, Dalton was edged into second place by a mere14 seconds from Youth A winner Ross Johns. Tom Rial and Nieve Holmes finished in third and fourth places. In the Youth B class Josh Haith took a narrow win from 2011 champ Ben Clarke, Dawson Marriott took his Mansfield Motorcycles KTM 85 to a solid third place in his first pre season outing on his new machine.
As conditions brightened up, a packed start line of competitors for the adult event were eager to get going. From the off RideoffroadUK team rider Scott Austin took a cool holeshot ahead of the hard charging Biff Smith on his Sandiford supported KTM.
The Beginner class saw Yorkshire lad Joel Foster take his RM250 to his first Hare & Hounds win, Dan Sadler in his first ever enduro, ground out a superb finish on his old RM125 taking second place back home to Acklams Motorcycles in Harrogate. The Over 40 class battle was almost shaped from the start as Gas Gas UK spanner man Kev Hipwell led from start to finish. Kev has lots of experience, and was the only wise rider to keep his well prepped goggles on all race, something that is essential during wet winter events. Clubman honours went to Stuart Waterhouse, Stuart who is one of the stronger enduro riders pushed hard for the entire race duration, this ensured he finished one lap up on his nearest rival Mark Cheatham. Karl Waltho grabbed third spot in a class which is shaping up to be very competitive as the 2012 season unfolds. A big pat on the back goes to our lady riders, in particular Jade Gordon who grabbed the win from Gina Bewlay with Becky Dawson in third. John Brindley had a good days racing to take the Over50 class win, and Steven Brown set his 2012 intentions into win mode by taking the Sportsman class win from enduro newcomer Rob Bunting. David Haith made it a family affair by taking the final sportsman podium place.
This new venue will offer another chance for a great event as a championship round will be held there in 2012. With more land at our disposal a lap time of 20 minutes should be achievable as the ground dries up, something that is almost unheard of in modern XC events. Massive thanks to the hard working marshals, the windy conditions certainly kept them busy repairing tapes. Next event is on February 5th at Lee Dell near Rochdale in Lancashire, Round 1 of the 2012 Championship. Discounted pre paid event entries http://rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events
It is a long way to Harwood Dale for most people, nearly at the edge of the known world but it was well worth the drive for the crowds of people, spectators and riders, who made their way North for Rideoffroaduk's Ironman Extreme Enduro. Loosely based on the old Last Man Standing event from the USA, where organiser Wayne Braybrook was one of only two finishers alongside Knighter, this new event attracted a cross section of two-wheel riders from the World of motorsport. The Low North Camp venue is extensive and contains many features, natural and man-made, all ideal for inclusion in an extreme event. Boulder strewn gulleys, foundations of long derelict building and a rock slab climb from a riverbed combined with a multitude of man-made obstacles gave riders the challenge of a lifetime. Upturned skips, log sections and an obligatory upright tyre section all added to the demands of the long and winding course which was ridden in both directions. The event got underway with a 90 minute Hare and Hounds event, which acted as a qualifying event for the main race of the day. With a set number of riders going into the final extreme event in the afternoon competition was close across all classes. The H&H race ran in a roughly clockwise direction with most of the very extreme sections bypassed. KORR's Jonny Walker was one of the top riders at the event and he made short work of qualifying in top spot and was joined in the afternoon race by 13 other Pro and Expert riders plus forty more maniacs from the Clubman, Veteran, Sportsman and Ladies ranks which swelled the start line to 55 riders, all starting at the same time.
A 'Le Mans' style start saw all 55 riders running slightly uphill to their machines on the start line. Jonny Walker, on the right side of the line and Scott Austin on the left fired their machines into life simultaneously. Walker powered up the start straight into the tight left-hander as Austin forgot that the course direction had changed and charged straight ahead into Walker mid turn. This was a dramatic start to such a high profile event as two of the top contenders tumbled along the grass allowing Wayne Braybrook to take the lead into the first section of many. Luckily both Walker and Austin were uninjured and their machines fired into life immediately with Walker joining the race mid-pack as Austin took a little longer to get going. The field streamed over the tyre section or the logs, which offered a slightly easier but longer option, and off into the wide-open spaces of Harwood Dale. The tight and twisty track lead them to a series of upturned skips which bought all but the most proficient to a grinding halt as rider after rider attempted to climb the gripless steel skips. Most Pro and Expert riders continued on their way and easily cleared the steep mound after the skips before entering the wooded areas leading to the infamous Brickworks section. The low walls of the first section did little to prepare riders for the high walls of the second series of brickwork obstacles and initially queues soon formed as marshals hauled dozens of riders out at the exit of the foundations. Many riders had looked at this section and carefully chosen their lines through it but in the race, with bodies and bikes littering the track, it was simply a case of going wherever there was space in the opening few laps.
Once race order had been restored to something like its natural order, Jonny Walker regained the lead very early on with Wayne Braybrook in hot pursuit, the log jams at many extreme sections cleared and riders could have a good run at each one, all except to toughest section of all, the Rock Slabs.
Jonny Walker continued to maintain a fast pace, matched only by Wayne Braybrook who had not ridden competitively since January. The veteran rider did well and proved he still has the magic touch when it comes to extreme riding, eventually taking second overall less than two minutes behind Walker. Neil Flockhart's long journey South proved to be worthwhile as he narrowly took third place ahead of Gary Daniels. Gary Jenkins rounded out the top five but there were impressive performances from MXers Jamie Law and Jake Nichols, both out of their comfort zone, as Law finished in eighth place and Nichols in tenth. David Dudley had a clear run at the Clubman title with only Ian McMahon matching him on laps although nearly 12 minutes behind. James Reeve grabbed the final podium position ahead of Rob Dawson and Harry Eccles. Veteran new boy Jason Crossland pushed his trials skills to the limit on his way to victory in the Over 40's class finishing seven minutes clear of second placed Gavin Johnston as Mick Rayson took third place two laps adrift of the leading pair. Steve Shaw's four laps were enough to give him the Over 50 class win ahead of Stuart Goodall.
Jane Daniels excels at this type of event and had no trouble in taking the ladies class win as Jade Gordon and Becky Dawson found the going extremely hard. Low North Camp proved to be an excellent venue for this event with it's rugged natural terrain combined with the numerous man-made challenges included by the Rideoffroaduk team but without doubt the focal point for most spectators was the rock slab section which proved to be the most difficult of all and a great spectacle, just what extreme enduro should be. Wayne and Sonya Braybrook and the Rideoffroaduk team did a great job with the course and event organisation which ran like clockwork. Although this event was really a test to see how such an undertaking would work, they got the formula right and provided a real spectacle for both riders and spectators. Results
The Doodson Motorsport 2011 Hare & Hounds Championship reached a dramatic conclusion at an awesome new enduro only venue near Branton in South Yorkshire. Wayne Braybrook and his team of course builders created a 4 mile woodland based final round, including a couple of MX table tops, optional Xtreme log sections and super fast open straights, the scene was set.
The Youth B class, easily the largest class, was won by Luke knight on his immaculate KTM 85, Luke Owen and Ben Turner rounded out the podium places. Sunday morning 10am saw the start of a packed sportsman event. Championship leader John Steeples made his worst start of the year. Taking around 7 kicks to start his KTM made conditions difficult for him, as riders streamed around lap one it was Kris Weston who was first back to the Dunlop lap scoring tent. Kris opted to take the "safe" easy route around the Xtreme log section as he edged out an early lead on Championship rivals Joe Wheeler, Ian Heyworth and Joe Webster. As the 2 hour time counted down, track conditions were near perfect although the tinder dry woodland was creating dust problems for some riders mid pack. At the finish flag Kris Weston held on for a superb win on his super tuned KTM 150. Joe Wheeler held on to second spot due to taking the Xtreme log route on every lap which showed a saving of around 5 seconds per lap. Trials convert Julian Holmes rounded out the podium. John Steeples and Joe Webster both had to push their bikes through the finish as dust ingress halted the two KTM's.
In the new for 2011 Beginner class, Sean O'Brian held on for a great win in the dusty conditions proving that a methodical approach to tough events is always sound advice. Dale Jones earned a credible second spot and Dominic Bunting ground out a fine third spot despite having a face full of dust on the last lap! The Ladies class battle was won by runaway championship leader Jade Gordon. 2012 may see a different story, Nieve Holmes, competing in the Adult Ladies class for the first time netted a very impressive second spot. Nieve has already been signed up as the rideoffroaduk Enduro Race Team lady rider for 2012, so keep an eye on her progress as the coaching from Wayne Braybrook helps her develop her skill set. Tara Johnson had a trouble free ride to take home a good third spot. With a short break for morning results and trophy presentation, the Expert, Over40 and Clubman were ready to start. With the warm conditions meaning dust was going to be a problem for many riders, the pre event briefing advising riders to stay away from the soft powder berms did little to deter the eager, faster riders.
Over 40 class honors were taken by Jason Crossland. Jason is back to Enduro's after a lengthy home building project, and is enjoying competing away from the frantic Expert class. Harrogate builder Lee Smith pushed on to take a good second spot on a rare Hare & Hounds outing.
Huge thanks to everyone who has made the now established Doodson Motorsport Hare & Hounds Championship what it is today, a truly top class organisation with a now proven track record, we can't wait for the 2012 Doodson Diary! 2011 Up & Coming events:
Doodson Motorsport Championship Rideoffroaduk organisers Wayne and Sonya Braybrook put on a real treat for riders in the Doodson Motorsport Championship at Bunts Blast over the weekend. Situated just outside Mansfield, the venue was very large with a course to match. Stubble season is well underway and there were plenty of wide-open fields ready for the twisty but flowing course laid out by the very experienced Rideoffroaduk team, but just to even things up in favour of the more technical riders the course twisted and turned along a disused railway embankment before leading into a hidden sting in the tail of the track, a tough woodland section with two stream crossings. The course was well-balanced. As the MX boys streaked ahead across the opening field sections the riders with Trials backgrounds were left behind but as soon as the fast boys hit the woodland, things swung into the technical riders favour with plenty of roots and slippery banks leading out of the fast flowing stream. The weekend's racing began on Saturday afternoon, following a Wayne Braybrook training school. The Youth riders got a shot at the slightly shortened course and were soon kicking up dust on the fields. Luckily there was a torrential downpour on Saturday evening, which left the course in perfect condition for the two adult races on Sunday. The young riders in Saturday's race really took full advantage of the flowing course and in the Junior class Dawson Mariott lead his class home for a win by just over a minute from close rival Reece Pickersgill followed by Kieran Austin and Frank Skillin. If there was an award for cutest rider of the day it would have gone to Jaysi Austin in fifth place in her first ever race. Nieve Holves lead the Juniors A class home and took the overall win but was matched on laps by James Latta in second place as Oliver Brisedon cruised to third. Lee Shaw took the Juniors B class win while Dale Jones narrowly took second place, just beating Craig Law who eventually took third spot. Sunday dawned bright and breezy as the Beginners, Sportsman, Ladies and Over 50's classes left the start line. The overnight rain made the woodland sections very tricky in just one spot and the course was quickly re-routed to accommodate the riders as Sportsman John Steeples lead the field right from the dropping of the start flag.
TGOR's Martyn Field showed he still knows his way around a course as he won the Over 50's class by nearly two minutes clear from Mark Wardingley as Mark Paine took third in class and joined the top two on thirteen laps. Jade Gordon gradually pulled clear of her fellow Ladies class competitors and very nearly lapped them all on her way to winning the class but Gina Bewlay sailed into a clear second place with Becky Dawson on the same lap a few minutes behind in third place. James Nichols was top Beginner rider but he is a pretty good beginner to clock up thirteen laps, which would have seen him in the top 20 Sportsman ranks. He managed to grab an extra lap as the finish flag dropped, consigning Dale Jones to second place, followed by Craig Law in third. The track kept it's good condition as the afternoon race began. The tricky stream crossings were included in the lap and all was set for a terrific race. Andy Noakley got an excellent start at the front of the Expert ranks and was followed by Scott Austin and Harry Hillas, Grant Hacking, Bryn Clarke and Pingu Hughes. As they entered the technical sections Hillas closed to near the front of the pack but Noakley held his lead as they neared the lap scoring area. Hillas eventually took the lead but despite his excellent extreme skills, even he made hard going of the climb out of the stream section at times. This also caught out Scott Austin but both riders recovered well and charged around the course for twenty laps with Hillas finally taking the win with a couple of minutes to spare, which gave him the Expert Championship title as an extra bonus for his hard work. Andy Noakley secured third place ahead of Hacking and Clarke. Anthony Tempest really had his work cut out as he took the Clubman class win. Rideoffroaduk rider Rob Dawson couldn't quite make up the large lead Tempest had built and settled for second place, safe in the knowledge he had secured the Clubman Champions title for the season. Danny Clarke rode to a solid third place with a lap in hand over Shane Marriott in fourth. The Over 40's class had a brand new entrant. Jason Crossland celebrated his 40th as the youngest member of the over 40's class but had a lot of learning to do in terms of getting his excuses in before the event begins. Experience isn't just about skill on a bike but he began his Veterans career well with the old 'just out for a ride' excuse while more experienced veteran Jason Hope brandished a swollen finger, just in case he need something to fall back on after the race.
An excellent event, well attended and a very good course expertly marshalled by the rideoffroaduk crew. Results
After a full week of rain the sun finally showed its hand, great weather made for a superb social atmosphere at the second round of the rideoffroaduk Ironman Challenge. The weekend started with a new event for the rideoffroaduk crew on Saturday evening. Wayne Braybrook had planned a "fun" Hill Climb event to test riders in a different way. Marked out with Ski Poles, a fantastic turn out of riders from all classes had 3 qualifying runs up the hill. Anyone who reached the summit went into a grand final where a timed run would find the "King of the Hill". Steve Shaw took his Gas Gas 250 to a great win in the Sportsman class. Local ace Ben Howard prepared his KTM solely for the hill grabbing the Expert win. Both riders netted a pocket full of cash for their efforts courtesy of the Braybrook's.
The Youth Ironman event ran for 2 hours first thing Sunday. Reece Pickersgill showed all the Juniors that he means business by taking a convincing win ahead of rideoffroaduk regular Dawson Marroitt. Eva Trickett took part in her first ever race on her CRF70, Eva completed 3 laps and took home a trophy for her efforts. Nieve Holmes once again dominated the Youth B class with a 15 lap tally over the two hour duration. Ben Clarke grabbed second spot despite leading in the early stages, and Luke Owen earned a fine third spot. With an impressive line up for the main adult event, a busier than expected entry once again had a Le Mans start run to the bikes. As riders streamed over the hills, the 4 hour event was going to be tough for Solo Ironmen, and great fun for the two man teams! The day simply got better and better, sticky conditions went into dry, with the odd flicker of dust from some areas of the track. Rideoffroad team riders Scott Austin and Andy Noakley were on the case from the off, both riders in separate teams they were setting a good pace. Most teams opted for a 50 minute stint in the saddle before the all important change overs started, and boy did they start! The team change over was a hive of activity. As Noakley tagged his team mate, Martin Sandiford, they were around one minute off the pace. Chris Hughes then took over from Scott Austin and was soon caught by a smooth yet effective riding style from Sandiford. As the four hours ticked away, a great second stint from Martin Sandiford, despite a heavy fall, meant him and his team mate Andy Noakley took a popular local win.
Liam Radcliffe earned a superb win in the Sportsman Club class. Liam's determination was great to see as he just held off Ryan Newbury for second spot. Mansfield Motorcycles boss Shane Marriott used his fitness to great effect to take home third place for his monumental efforts. The most popular win of the day went to Ian Heyworth and Joe Wheeler in the
Sportsman Club team class, both riders argued over who had done the most work,
never the less a superb team effort earned them a great win on home soil. Next Event is at a brand new venue near Gisburn Lancs on August 28th. Entries open now, call 07576 095137 or enter online www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events
Reece Pickersgill was literally on top of the world in the Junior class, with a view from the hill tops which allowed you to look down on fighter jets! Young Reece had both burners on as he took victory in the Junior class. Jacob Wilson earned a fine second place, with Dawson Marriott having an off day taking third. Nieve Holmes showed the rest of the Youth riders a clean pair of heels as she led from start to finish completing 9 laps. Up and coming Lee Shaw took advantage of Ben Clarke's early race get off to take the Youth B win, the ever improving Sarah Thomas grabbed a popular final podium place. Sportsman championship leader John Steeples took advantage of a great start to pull a small lead on lap one. In hot pursuit were Chris Vines, Ryan Newbury, Joe Wheeler and Shane Marriott. With only 30 minutes remaining disaster struck championship and race leader Steeples when a rear wheel puncture forced him to retire. This paved the way for Joe Wheeler who had gradually worked his way through the field to take a narrow win from serious championship contender Kris Weston. Third place went to another championship top runner Joe Webster.
When TGOR front man Martyn Field said "these events are why I keep riding enduros", rideoffroaduk clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook knew the ingredients were just right for a great day of riding. Clearly enjoying the event, Martyn took a fine win in the Over50 class on his RM250 by just over a minute from Mark Paine. Mark was the early race leader but a small mistake in one stream crossing cost him valuable time meaning he had to settle for second. Iron man of the day Stuart Goodall took a great third place on his big KTM, Stuart also rode in the Over40 race later in the afternoon! In the Ladies class local lass Becky Dawson grabbed a popular win, the close battle she was having with Jade Gordon came to a premature end when Gordon's bike had mechanical problems. A delayed start to the afternoon race meant that a two hour race duration was in force. This was to be one of the best decisions of the day, with riders not having to worry about the searing heat for the extra half an hour - the action and pace of the event was electric.
The Clubman class was won by Anthony Tempest who narrowly edged out championship leader Rob Dawson. Matty Bell had the race of his life with Matt Ward, the top four clubman were separated by a mere 40 seconds. Chris Ball grabbed the Over40 class win ahead of Neil Boyd. Championship leader Howard Blundell had to settle for third with 2010 champion Mick Rayson making a welcome return on his new KTM six days model. Many thanks to all marshal's who helped throughout the day - and we all hope that Tony Elsome has a speedy recovery and pass on all our best wishes. Next event is on August 13th/14th. On Line entries and event info www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events
RideoffroadUK's once a year visit to the quaint North Lincolnshire Wolds village of Hatcliffe proved once again to be a great event in the calendar. Although the course is shorter than the usual offerings from the rideoffroaduk crew, the compact lap offered an enduro special test type feeling to those who travelled to compete. A late decision to run just one adult event was not ideal, although with the present trend of entering events as late as possible to event days, many event organisers have to change schedules at the eleventh hour to make events viable to run during difficult times which we are all experiencing. A scorching hot day greeted everyone as the start line filled up. The pre event briefing conducted by Wayne Braybrook reminded all riders of the importance of hydration during the event. As the Flag dropped Tom Healey grabbed the holeshot and dived into the woodland section just ahead of rideoffroaduk team riders Andy Noakley and Scott Austin. Around the first lap Noakley had taken the lead with Austin and Hillas in hot pursuit.
In the Ladies class Jade Gordon took the win from runner up Becky Dawson, with Helen Lang holding on for third place at the finish. Rob Dawson was pushed all the way in the super competitive Clubman class by the hard charging Matthew Ward, Danny Clarke was delighted with his days work and he was surprised at the presentation when he was called for third place.
Many thanks to all the hard working marshals and helpers, your efforts never go unnoticed, we wouldn't be able to do it without any of you. Round 7 moves to another brand new venue near Pateley Bridge in North Yorkshire on July 31st - this venue has never been used before for Enduro's. On line entries now available via the new web site. www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/events Or call 07576 095137 for more information.
When a top Expert rider crashes on lap one and is on the ground for over 5 minutes, the likelihood of an event win is doubtful. In one of the most amazing comebacks Team Austin/Hughes managed to take the Open Challenge Team win form under MPS rider Rob Johnson's feet on the very last lap.
The course had been designed by Wayne Braybrook to be rideable whatever the weather. The previous day's rain had done a great job of keeping the dust down and after around 45 minutes the dry lines were evident. With the "team challenge" being the one to watch, riders could switch at any time in the change over zone, most riders opted for 3 or 4 laps on track enabling them to push hard then get a well earned rest. As the timing clock approached the half way stage, Team Rowland/Johnson had a healthy 5 minute lead in the Open class, despite Rob's machine problems forcing him to run back to the team change over area to use Jacks bike to continue. Rob Dawson and James Reeve were hanging on to second place ahead of Austin and Hughes, and then the whole event was opened up by over an hour of steady rain which changed track conditions. As riders had to work overtime to stay on line, fatigue was setting in. Teams switched riders more often hoping to create a window to attack, but the lap times simply went longer and longer. Revelling in the slippery conditions, albeit in pain, Scott Austin decided his team mate Pingu had done a great job holding station and the time was right to attack. Steeling second place on the penultimate lap, and with a two and a half minute gap to leader Rob Johnson, no one would have ever dreamt that the win was on. Tough conditions maketh the man and when Scott Austin appeared from the final woodland to take the win on lookers were amazed. Rob Johnson and Jack Rowland had to settle for second as Scott Austin and Pingu Hughes celebrated taking the win. 100% respect to both teams for an awesome display of grit and determination. Rob Dawson and James Reeve took the final podium spot proving Clubman can mix it in the Expert class.
Chris Vines and Paul Hill were delighted to net third place in the Team Vets class taking their first ever trophies home to Lancashire. Nick Sims and Tim Johnson rode superbly well to win the Team Sportsman class. In the Solo Ironman classes most competitors opted for the methodical approach aiming to grind down the laps and stay out of trouble. Another rider taking home a never forget win was Mansfield Motorcycles Shane Marriott. Shane dug deep and worked through the 4 hour Solo Sportmans stint with only one pit stop, well done that man. Local riders Paul Daley Smith and Andy Woodall grabbed second and third places respectfully. Dan Field took the Expert Solo Ironman honours by less than one minute from Anthony Tempest. Well done to all riders at this tough event. The final round will be at Rochdale on 14th August. NEXT EVENT: July 10th Youth and Adults - Doodson Championship Round 6 at Hatcliffe in the North Lincolnshire Wolds, Entries Now Open 07576 095137 or Visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Lightning Hillas Strikes twice. Carlton in North Yorkshire stepped in to play host to Round 5 of the Doodson Motorsport Championship over the 5th June weekend. The rideoffroadUK team, and their trusted grounds man, went to work on the Helmsley venue to open up the course creating lots of passing places, as well as removing any tree stumps and generally grading the whole loop. Wayne Braybrook had added even more new loops to add to the awesome track layout created in March this year. The result was a superb Hare & Hounds course which was praised by the riders who attended. With a smaller than usual entry line up due to the Half term holidays, and many club members who pay the annual pilgrimage to the TT races, the decision was taken to run one Adult race around the huge Carlton plantation, running for two and a half hours. Youth riders kicked off the action at 9am for a one hour race. Dawson Marriott narrowly edged out the ever improving Reece Pickersgill from Huddersfield in the Junior class with Leanne Field grabbing the final podium place on her TGOR KTM. Spare a thought for young Will Smith who managed two full laps around on his tiny KTM50 on his first ever Enduro Hare & Hounds, well done young man. The Youth B class saw a newcomer James Conner trying his hand at enduro for the first time, taking a controlled win after a super start. Ben Clarke took his JK Digger hire sponsored Honda to a creditable second spot, with Ronnie Hill taking third place back to Lancashire for his efforts.
In the fiercely competitive clubman class, runaway championship leader Rob Dawson took his rideoffroaduk supported Gas Gas to a well earned win. Dawson was kept on his toes all day by top trials man Josh Law out on his JN supported Gas Gas 200. Josh kept the gap to a minimum and only a pit visit blunder hampered his progress. Third place was snapped up by a rejuvenated Danny Clarke on his JK Digger KTM, Danny who in his own words is "just enjoying riding" seems to be back on form. Over50 class honours went to a delighted Mark Wardingley, the technical going suited Marks smooth riding style and got his championship points tally moving up the order. Steve Shaw grabbed second spot on his old Gas Gas for the last time, a shiny new 2011 machine will be ready for the next Champ round. Lee Cooper rounded out the Vets podium.
Out on a new KTM XC John Steeples confirmed his sights are set on this years Sportsman Championship by taking the win. Second spot went to Kris Weston who is now looking like a regular podium visitor, and Nick Sims was surprised to grab third place at the finish. Getting used to 350 power has took a while but Nick seems to be back to form. A change of event for June 19th as rideoffroaduk launch round one of the "4 Hour Ironman Challenge" at Low North Park Scarborough in North Yorkshire. Next Event - Ironman 4 Hour Challenge June 19th Scarborough. www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Josh
Lays Down the Law The fourth round of the Doodson Motorsport Championship headed for the Lancashire hills. Lee Dell was the host, and late afternoon showers did little to dampen the enthusiastic competitors who once again supported this growing series. Youth riders were the first on track early Sunday, all youth riders coped well in the true enduro conditions. George Birchall took a great win from Nathan Ball in the Youth A class, Dawson Marroitt had a steady day to win the junior class, and Ben Clarke took a convincing win in the Youth B Class ahead of his friend Sean Lightbody. Young Jacob Wilson got a well deserved finish at his first ever ride hare & Hounds event.
Ryan Newbury was the man to chase in the Sportsman class through the early stages of the race, setting a superb pace. Only Kris Weston could match him lap after lap, and the pair were separated by less than 2 minutes at the finish flag. Local ace Ian Hayworth grabbed a well deserved third place. The ladies class battle was a close one, with Gina Bewlay pushing jade Gordon right to the end. Gina aggravated an old knee injury towards the end of the event allowing Jade Gordon to take the win. Tara Johnson took her KTM to the final podium place, with Anita Gordon back on song finishing fourth. As the new for 2011 beginner's class increases in size, the competition aspect has followed suit. Simon Walker took a fine win coping well with the open nature of the event, completing 9 laps was an impressive tally. Shaun Spencer was the second man home in a time just over the two hour mark, and Craig Law was delighted to nurse his DRZ home to third place riding for over 40 minutes with a flat front tyre. Over 50 class honours went to Mark Paine on his KTM, John Brindley took second spot less than one minute behind, with a back to form Steve Burton treating his new Gas Gas to third place.
Clubman class spoils went to Josh Law on a borrowed 200 Gas Gas. Josh, a fine trials rider, certainly has some pace and a move to enduro surely has to happen next year. Local ace Matty Bell was a popular runner up on his 300 Gas Gas, with Matthew ward delighted to make the last podium place narrowly missing out on the extra lap at the chequered flag. Well done to all the marshals, who once again did a superb job of looking after the track and its competitors. Round five of the Championship heads for a true woodland venue in Chesterfield on June 5th. To Enter this event call Sonya Braybrook on 07576 095137 For event and Enduro Training School info visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
The Battle of Norwood As the majority of the UK was blessed with superb weather, the iconic Norwood Teversal venue was prepared by the rideoffroadUK organisation for what turned out to be one of the closest finishes ever in the Doodson Motorsport Championship. Clerk of the Course Wayne Braybrook was able, due to the dry conditions, to add many extra loops to the already awesome track at Norwood. With Tall Trees wood back on the menu, and a massive turn out for the weekend's activities, the event provided a great days sport, once again the quality enduro events bar was raised another notch by the ride organisation. Sunday early morning saw the Youth class riders on track on a shortened loop taking around 8 minutes. TGOR rider Dan Bewlay had great competition at the event from newcomer George Birchall, both riders on KTM 85 big wheel machines At the finish only 19 seconds separated the pair. Ben Clarke took a popular home win in the Youth B class, another newcomer Matt Furniss netted second spot, and Sarah Thomas stayed out of trouble to net a well earned final podium place. The Junior class was won by local rider Dawson Marriott with Reece Pickersgill second and Leanne Field taking third place back to TGOR HQ. 10am saw a massive turn out for the morning event. With the top points scorers seeded and on the front row, the atmosphere heightened as the large amount of spectators waited to see riders around the first lap.
The ever increasing beginner's class was won by another local lad Che Vaughan on his 250 Honda, second spot went to Simon Walker who completed 10 laps, and series contender Sean O'Brien had a great points haul by taking third place.
After a short break for refreshments and track repairs, the afternoon event for Expert, Over40 and Clubman riders was ready for the off. Tom Healey finally managed to get his 350 KTM off the line to holeshot the Expert class into turn one, he was chased hard around the 10 minute lap by the chasing field of Lincoln Brewster, Championship leader Harry Hillas, Scott Austin and MPS rider Jack Rowland. Leading around the first lap was the experienced Brewster followed by Healey, Austin and Hillas. The pace that the top Experts were running at was nothing short of British Standard. The Clubman class saw rideoffroadUK rider Rob Dawson get a good start at last, after the first two championship events poor starts have left him work to do. Rob who already has his sights set on winning this years Clubman class, is itching to get into the Expert class to further his racing. Dawson's lap times allowed him to get another lap on the chasing clubman pack before the finish flag went out. Joe Severn had a trouble free race to grab a superb second spot. Another rapidly improving rider, taking a fine final podium spot was Adam Taylor - Adam now looking at one with his new for 2011 Gas Gas mount is improving by the week, and is a sure challenger for the up to date unstoppable Rob Dawson.
Gaining on the leaders lap by lap after a slow start was MPS rider Jack Rowland, Jack who is now establishing himself as a true Enduro rider was taking time out of Hillas's lead lap after lap. Into the final lap with 24 seconds lead and no rear brake Hillas had all the work to do to fend off the tenacious Rowland. The pair bounced out of the final woodland block a mere 3 seconds apart - Hillas was pumped at the line taking the win, the quiet lad from Yorkshire is coming good after some up and down seasons. Both riders shook hands and acknowledged a hard fought fair race. In the Over40 class local enduro stalwart Mark Godfrey took the win ahead of Justin Carter, with Jason Hope making a return to racing on a shiny new TE250 Husaberg. Possibly the most action packed Doodson Motorsport sponsored Enduro event to date, the series moves to Lancashire on May 15th for Round 4 with Lee Dell prepared and ready after 7 months rest. May Bank Holiday see's a new venture for the ride crew with a weekend long practice session event for its members old and new at the popular Caistor track. The rideoffroadUK Enduro race team riders will be on hand offering help and advice to riders wishing to learn more about Hare & Hounds Racing. Non Members welcome. Massive thanks to Sutton Falcons Motor club, for their continued support in the Norwood track duties, AND to all the hard working marshals and assistants.
Doodsons Motorsport Hare & Hounds Championship
Dan Bewlay won the morning Youth A race ahead of Doltan Shannon. Both lads clocked up an impressive 6 laps. Archie Flack was 3rd. Ben Clarke and Ronnie Hill scored 5 laps to take 1st and 2nd in the Youth B race. Marc Vardy (pictured right) was 3rd. Reece Pickersgill (pictured right) won the Juniors. The second race was for the Adult Beginners. Sportsman, Vets over 50 and Ladies. It was an impressive line up with over 120 riders ranked against the flag. Simon Walker won the Beginners race with 10 laps. One lap ahead of the chasing pack of Ant Ross, Sean O'Brien, Craig Law, Scott Booth, Ian Kirk, Steve Johnson and Mark Siddons. All on 9 laps. Sportsman John Steeples also went the extra mile to win his class and the overall - a lap ahead of Joe Webster in second and John Butterworth in 3rd. Steve Shaw (pictured below) proved that anything good is worth the wait when he took his first ever class win in the Over 50s. Lee Cooper was the runner up and Chris Edge was 3rd. MPS Racing's Katy Bullock won the Ladies class by a lap from Jade Gordon, Gina Bewlay and Tara Johnson
All riders appreciated the hard work making this event a great success from start to finish. AM Results PM Results The next challenge for the RideoffroadUK crew is to host Round one of the ACU British Cross Country Championship on March 27th at Low North Camp Harwood Dale. This venue has been carefully chosen to host round one due to its all weather capabilities, both in and around the paddock, and on track. For more info visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Doodson
Motorsport Championship RideoffroadUK had a clean slate to start the 2011 Championship, a local
venue to the rideoffroaduk HQ, Ellington Banks was used for its superb all
weather capabilities. Planning events in the winter months is not for the faint hearted, and
with a dusting of snow the day before the event we were all reminded that we
are still in the winter months. Wayne Braybrook and his trusty track workers had planned the perfect
course taking into account the new Sportsman Beginners class. The course used
the MOD Off road driver training areas and surrounding tracks and trails. With
the ground able to take weeks of rain without stopping the event taking place,
competitors were greeted on Sunday morning with a hard standing paddock and
indoor signing on and catering, job well organised. Sunday 8am saw the dedicated Youth classes on the start line and ready to
go. The one hour event was timed to perfection with all youth riders finishing
the event. Dalton Shannon took a convincing win and looked smooth and stylish
in the slick conditions. Ronnie Hill earned a great runner up spot despite a
first lap off on a big puddle, and Josh Patrick rounded out the Youth B
Podium. Dawson Marriott worked hard in the muddy conditions on his Mansfield
Motorcycles KTM and finished just ahead of rideoffroaduk newcomer Reece
Pickersgill. Both riders did themselves proud in the small wheel Junior class.
Nieve Holmes took the Youth A trophy and Dunlop cap home for her impressive 5
lap tally. As ever the morning Sportsman, Beginners, Ladies and Over50 vets event
was full to bursting, all riders were briefed on new 2011 club rules. All
riders conduct throughout the day was nothing short of the best we have seen. Andy Myers was the first around to lap scoring, Andy’s speed has
improved dramatically since his switch to 2 stroke machinery and this showed
throughout the event. At the finish he was just pipped on the last lap by Joe
Webster finishing just 25 seconds ahead of him. Rounding out the podium was
John Steeples, the top 4 riders all completed 16 laps.
The New Sportsman Beginner class has really created a buzz in the
rideoffroaduk paddock. Mark Neal took his first win of the year getting 13
laps in, runner up spot went to Sean O’Brien, and Dominic Bunting was the
final trophy winner on 12 laps completed. This new concept allows riders with
less than 1 years experience the chance to run in their own class, ensuring
competition stays healthy in the hobby rider ranks. Over50 class honours were stolen by John Brindley. John kept out of
trouble and narrowly beat Steve Shaw at the flag by a mere 55 seconds. Mark
Paine filled the final podium spot, last years Over50 champ Steve Burton took
fourth place despite being under the weather.
After a short break for lunch and track repairs, the more experienced
Expert, Over 40 and Clubman riders were ready to do battle. As on lookers
waited, the warm engines sign was given. With an Expert line up of no less
than 16 riders, the quality of competitors was simply awesome.
The super competitive Clubman class was won by another rideoffroadUK team
rider Rob Dawson, Rob’s winter training schedule has now been proven,
showing that preparation is the key to winter events. Runner up spot went to
ex trials man Mark Harrison on his Gas Gas, with another Gas Gas rider Matty
Bell getting his season off to a great start with a steady third place. In the
Over40 class David King came out on top, Chris Cooper took his KTM to a superb
runner up spot, Phil Dodsworth rounded out the podium with a fine third place. Well done to all competitors, the first event of 2011 went off in fine
style showing that rideoffroadUK have not sat back on their laurels, the hard
work planning during the off season is starting to come to fruition. Massive thanks to all our hard working marshals and officials, the next
round of the Doodson Motorsport Championship will take place on March 6th
at a new to be confirmed venue in the North of England. For info on future events, training schools and industry links visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
RideoffroadUK kick started their 2011 Hare & Hounds campaign at
Thoresway Motoparc Caistor on February 20th, with a pre Championship warm up
event for its members old and new. And dry it was… with the UK weather having dealt some wet conditions in recent weeks, the ride team were pleasantly surprised how the high winds had dried the Caistor hills for this warm up event. With a select entry of keen riders wanting a full two and a half hour event, the start flag was waved shortly after 11am. With a quality Expert line of consisting of LPE Kawasaki top gun Jordon Rose, Eurotek KTM's Tom Healey, and the newly formed RideoffroadUK Enduro Race teamsters Scott Austin and Andy Noakley out for some training, the top class was looking good.
As the riders swept into the outfield section it was clear to see who has been training hard this winter, Jordon Rose cruised through Lap Scoring with a adequate lead on lap one. Hot on his heals were Scott Austin, Andy Noakley and Tom Healey. Over the course of the race duration Jordon Rose gave a master class in how to ride smooth and fast, despite two very long un flustered pit stops. Tom Healey netted a solid second spot, and up graded ride team member Andy Noakley got his season off to a great start taking his ktm250XC to the final podium spot. Despite some sore hands Andy's fitness appears to be good ahead of the up coming 2011 Championship.
In the new for 2011 Beginner class, Steve Roberts notched up a fine 18 lap tally ahead of runner up Chris Belford also on 18 laps. Young Sam Thompson celebrated his 18th birthday in style by taking third place at his first ever Enduro event, well done Sam the man. Shane Tasker took overall victory in the Sportsman class finishing one lap clear of the entire field. Paul Daley Smith rode a borrowed Ex MPS Husky and was so happy with the performance he took a well deserved second place. Dark horse for 2011, and the final podium place was taken by Shane Marroitt, Shane has been working away for over a year now on Hare & Hounds events, and looks set to be a real threat to the sportsman class when the main Championship starts. The early morning youth B event was won in convincing style by Ben Turner on his CR85 Honda. Ben made light work of the slick conditions and finished with an impressive 8 lap tally. Ben Clarke dug on all his reserves to take a well deserved runner up spot, despite some mechanical issues on his last lap. Ronnie hill made the journey from Lancashire worthwhile by taking the final podium spot on 5 laps. The junior class was won by Dawson Marriott; Dawson's KTM was clearly heard singing its head off in the sticky conditions. RideoffroadUK newcomer Reece Pickersgill had a good race despite a slip off on the first lap which cost him valuable time. The plucky Yorkshire lad dug deep and ground out a great finish. So on we go; Round one of the Doodson Motorsport Championship moves to a brand new Woodland venue on February 20, with a planned 10 mile lap, this will be the place where the serious stuff kicks off for Northern based Hare & Hounds fans. Event Information on www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
The final round of the 2010 Doodson Motorsport Championship went off in fine style over the first weekend in November on a new woodland classic enduro course unearthed by the rideoffroaduk venue scouting team. First on track Sunday morning was the youth event which was well supported after a week of slow entries. Dawson Marriott dominated the Junior class taking a mature win on his immaculate Mansfield Motorcycles KTM. Rideoffroaduk newcomer Reece Hunt took the Youth A class honours one lap up on Ryan Brown. Dalton Shannon had a great race in the Youth B Class and finished one lap up on Ben Clarke who had to work through the field after machine problems on the start. 10am saw a truly first class Sportsman Over50 and Ladies line up. Many
riders were keen to get going on the newest forest venue on the rideoffroaduk
calendar. With championship positions reaching nail biting stages, the ultra
quick starting Stuart Waterhouse took the holeshot into the woods. As Stuart
came around t
Ladies honours went to Emily Davey after a race long battle with the gritty Jade Gordon. The pair were locked in battle for the full two hours around the technical woodland. At the finish Emily took the win by a mere 6 seconds from Jade. Tara Johnson netted a surprise third place ahead of Helen Lang on her Montesa trials bike. After a short break for results and presentation of the morning race it was time to get the faster men on track. Traditional Enduro specialist Tim Pattinson took a fine holeshot in the afternoon event, he was closely followed into the forest by all action Harry Hillas and Ben Wootton. Expert Champion Scott Austin had a nervous start when his bike refused to go as the flag dropped. Scott who used the event to test the 2011 Gas Gas 250 ahead of next seasons machine choice, set off hunting down the pack. Damian Butlers Suzuki also wouldn't start which was unusual. As the race progressed Hillas took the lead and gapped the expert field by over two minutes, his "get on" riding style entertained spectators with his pace through the pine tree lined woodland. Scott Austin overcame his poor start and settled into his rhythm ahead of Ben Wootton on his four stroke Honda. First lap leader Tim Pattinson battled hard until the end in some discomfort after catching a tree in the closing stages of the race. Hillas timed his penultimate lap to perfection crossing the line 3 seconds before the flag, in doing so he overhauled the expert class by one lap from the 2010 overall Champion Scott Austin. Damian Butler kept a good consistent pace to take a fine final podium place.
The Over40 class was dominated by local ace Mark Godfrey, Mark who is a "young" Over40 is used to these conditions from his British Championship days, the likeable vet David Salkeld took his 250 KTM to a superb second place on the day, followed home 42 seconds later by Justin Carter. We would like to thank all competitors for making the Doodson Motorsport Championship one of the best Hare & Hounds series in the country. Thank you to all marshals, helpers, and most of all rider support crews who assist riders in their favoured weekend pursuit. Visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for Winter Event Schedule details.
Butts Quarry Epic Battle When Lincoln Brewster tips up at any Hare & Hound Event, most other Expert riders know they will be up for a do or die battle right to the flag, Scott Austin and Brewster thrilled the crowds with a two and a half hour bar to bar contest which was eventually won by a mere 11 seconds by the victorious Scott Austin. Fantastic warn autumn weather greeted competitors for Round 7 of the Doodson Motorsport Championship at Butts Quarry. Wayne Braybrook and his rideoffroadUK track workers had stamped their own identity on the Butts Quarry venue by designing a track with lots of new tracks and fresh new loops to challenge the top class entry. The Sportsman class riders were the first away with Championship contender Stuart Waterhouse making a great start. RideoffroadUK regular Nick Sims had a nightmare start when his brand new 250 Gas Gas refused to start on the line, a few kicks later and the shiny new steed fired into life and he was chasing the pack down.
In the Ladies class local ace Jade Gordon was on a mission. Jades lap times were not only fast but were super consistent allowing her to take the win. Emily Davey narrowly missed out on getting the extra lap in but still finished a fine and well deserved second spot. Tara Johnson rounded out the Ladies podium finishers. Over50 class had a top class line up; Buxton's Steve Burton used his local knowledge to great effect and pulled off a convincing win ahead of local Heating Engineer Steve Shaw. Shaw, having not ridden his Gas Gas since February, used his trials skills to good effect taking a fine second spot. Chris Gregory rounded out the podium places, with another local man Chris Edge grabbing fourth. After a short break for lunch, morning event presentation and results, it was the turn of the Expert, Over40 and Clubman aces to do battle.
Lap after lap nothing separated the pair. At half race distance the pair
pitted for fuel and Brewster took the advantage pulling a 45 second lead. With
only 35 minutes to go the chase was on as Austin's team urged him on to close
the gap. At the flag Scott Austin was victorious by a mere 11 seconds;
Brewster was the first to say what a real race it was. Both riders had a
healthy respect for each other combined with fierce competition and rivalry.
Surprise winner of the Over40 class was Justin Carter (right). Justin ground
out a fantastic win on his KTM eventually clocking up 20 laps. Runner up spot
went As usual the clubman rivalry was as competitive as ever, Andy Noakley was the stand out rider of the day, Andy took the holeshot and gapped the entire field by over 2 minutes, however, three trips into the pits to repair rear wheel punctures was not in the general plan. Andy still got back to fourth place which was very impressive. At the finish flag Oliver Cooper finally found his form and took a great win ahead of Championship leader Chris Hughes, Adam Taylor took his Suzuki to a well deserved final podium place. Unluckily Lee Hattersley got a puncture on the penultimate lap, Lee managed to get the Suzuki four stroke around the last lap to the finish but it did cost him a higher place result. Danny Clarke had his season's best result after being upgraded from Sportsman taking sixth overall. A great job well done by all the rideoffroaduk marshals and helpers. We look forward to the season finale on November 7th at a new Woodland Venue where this years Championship draws to a thrilling close. The Final round of the Doodson Motorsport Championship moves to another new venue on November 7th. For event info visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or to enter the event simply call 07576 095137.
Ahead of this weekend's penultimate round of the Doodson Motorsport Hare & Hounds Championship at Butts Quarry, rideoffroaduk have opened their 2011 Membership for Youth and Adults riders, which is as ever great value for money and is essential for anyone wishing to compete with the club in 2011. With legislation getting tighter all the time, and with the on going road traffic act bearing its weight on off road events, the rideoffroaduk organisation have spent many hours making sure all our events operate within the official parameters laid down for officially permitted Enduro Hare & Hound events. All competitors registering with rideoffroaduk for 2011 will be issued with a fully affiliated competition licence bearing the affiliated body stamp, a rideoffroaduk gift pack, and their own personal race number for the entire season. But hurry up guys and girls the popular numbers are being snapped up fast. To register on line click www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk/rider-registration.htm
Bell Strikes at Lee Dell Some may find it hard to believe, after a run of 12 months the rideoffroaduk team had their first wet event since September 2009. Lee Dell Rochdale was the host to round 3 of the ACU Events Ltd Introductory Enduro XC Championship aimed at Sportsman and Hobby riders. The emphasis on this mini series was always to encourage hobby riders to compete in a championship with fellow riders of similar ability and experience. Despite the miserable North West weather conditions, which only arrived late Saturday evening, the weekend went as well as can be expected in the wet, muddy conditions.
At the finish flag Andy Myers had stretched out a one lap lead on the entire field as he and his 450 KTM revelled in the muddy conditions. Local ace Matt Solan ground out a fantastic 2nd place after running for over an hour without goggles. Third place went to Mike Slater. Mike's 125 two stroke performed well in the conditions earning him the final podium spot. On his return to bike fitness young Alex Clegg impressed his supporters with his best result this season taking fourth place, Michael Mundy held on to fifth place despite having to ride with no front brake for over 45 minutes. The Over50 class was the closest in the championship standings. After a good start and a fantastic first lap Mark Wardingley kept a hot pace to stave off his closest rival Steve Burton. Both men Gas Gas mounted, and with a winner takes all final round, Yorkshireman Wardingley grabbed the win and clinched the Championship by a single point from Buxton's Steve Burton. John Hughes was holding on to third place until with less than 2 minutes to go he pulled out of the event. With the Ladies class also tight at the top of the standings, this was always going to be the event to perform well in. Emily Davey dealt with the ladies class in fine style taking the win from Tara Johnson. Tara held on to second thanks to the encouragement from the ride marshals keeping her spirits high when the going got tough. Helen Lang rounded out the podium and in doing so scored just enough points to take the overall Championship.
Clubman class honours went to local extreme wet weather rider Matty Bell. Matty is enjoying a good run of form and was impressive throughout the race thrashing his 200 KTM around the Lee Dell Course. His pal and now Championship winner Chris 'Pingu' Hughes held on to a wise second place and was chuffed to bits to take the overall ACU Events Ltd XC series. Third place on the day went to the stylish Liam Ward. Liam's lap times were very consistent despite the difficult conditions on a 125cc two stroke. The Over40 runners were as hardy as ever, at the finish flag Stuart Goodall took his immaculately prepared KTM to a resounding win. Second place and overall Championship honours went to a delighted Howard Blundell, and Colin McNee secured the final podium place. Big appreciation goes to the rideoffroaduk helpers and marshals, we make no apologies for the weather, as that is the only thing we can't control. Well done to all competitors, we look forward to seeing you all at the next event. Round 7 Doodson Motorsport Championship, The Penultimate round in this years Championship heads for Butts Quarry on 10-10-10. Entries now open on 07576 095137 or see www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for event information.
Severn Up for Joe. Pinxton in Nottinghamshire played host to round six of the Doodson Motorsport Hare & Hounds XC Championship over the first weekend in September. The week leading up to the event was spent cutting the track into the farm crop, this enabled the ride team to create a maze effect to the paddock track section, which saw hundreds of spectator's trackside enjoying the action in the fantastic weather conditions. 10am saw a bumper Sportsman field of riders lined up ready for the off. Taking his first holeshot in the Championship was Callum Morewood on his YZ125, the chasing pack sprinted in and out of the maze style track and away into the new technical woodland sections opened up for this years event. First back through lap scoring on his new KTM was Stockton on Tees heating engineer Tom Leonard, he was closely followed by super quick Stuart Waterhouse, Vinny Mullan and championship contender Luke Copestake. With the track including lots of open going, this was the chance for riders to see just how much power their bikes really have as they tried to out drag each other out of the loamy corners and up the straights. At the half way stage, as riders pitted for fuel it was clear that competitors were using more than the average amount of fuel due to the open nature of the course. This was to catch some riders out in the latter stages of the event as they needed a splash of fuel to avoid running dry out on track on the final laps.
The Over 50 class battle was won by Eddie Tait. Eddies 450 BMW was just right for the open going, Steve Burton thrashed his 300 Gas Gas round to take runner up, while first lap leader Chris Gregory rounded out the podium and just missed out on an extra lap by a mere 6 seconds. In the Ladies Emily Davey chased hard all race long to hunt down the fast starting Jade Gordon, on the final lap the pair exited the railway section of the track together, Emily just getting into the lap scoring area one second before jade to take the win. Tara Johnson rounded out the Ladies class podium with a strong third place. In the lunch break as track repairs were carried out by the "ride" marshals, the presentation and results from the morning event were given out to competitors.
As the race progressed Jordon Rose held a commanding lead, Scott Austin, who in the early stages had a monster off in the woods, was holding his own in the tough conditions. Harry Hillas with his usual all action riding style, was keeping the pressure on Austin until in the latter stages his KTM developed an engine problem and lost power. Gav Houson out on his Craig's KTM was super consistent and as stylish as ever, only a third visit to the pits for a splash of fuel slowed his progress in the later stages. On the penultimate lap Jordon Rose struck problems when his rear chain guide got damaged derailing his drive chain. After some quick advice Jordon limped round the last lap to narrowly hang on to take the win. 42 seconds later Scott Austin crossed the line in second place to extend his Championship lead. With Hillas's bike only just getting around the final lap, Gav Houson rounded out the podium topping his day off with a fine final podium spot.
As the countdown clock got to the final stages, and with early leader Noakley out of the running it was Motobrox top man Joe Severn who took his maiden rideoffroaduk win on home soil. Joes 20 lap tally was enough to secure the win by just over a minute from series contender James Reeve. Liam Ward was urged on by his team on the penultimate lap, his crew knew that he could possibly get an extra lap in after checking the countdown clock during the final minutes. He missed out by only 6 seconds after thrashing his YZ125 round to a superb final podium place. Championship leader Chris Hughes had a below par day finishing in seventh place. In the Over40 class Mark Godfrey was, as usual, head and shoulders above the rest of the field. Mark who is an "only just Over 40" found his taste for racing again after having time away from the sport due to injury. Mick Rayson completed 18 laps to finish runner up, in doing so he added to his championship tally going into the final two rounds. Rideoffroaduk regular Shaun Woffinden took his 250 Honda to the final podium spot for his best result of the season. Stuart Cryer back from military duties missed out on a podium place by 45 seconds in fourth, and Stuart Goodall claimed fifth place to add to his series point's total. Massive thanks to the land owner for keeping the track interesting by allowing us to cut the course into his crop. Great job once again by all the ride marshals, and fantastic work by our event medics in dealing with Neil Marshal's injury. Get well soon mate from all the team. Results
Luke's The Doctor at Low North Camp. A fresh new track was prepared for round 5 of the rideoffroaduk Doodson Motorsport Championship at Low North Camp Harwood Dale On Sunday August 22nd. Wayne Braybrook and his team had spent a week on the east coast ensuring riders had lots of new challenges to deal with on race day. The course was run in the reverse direction for the first time this year, having unearthed 5 new loops, as riders walked the track on Saturday they praised the organisation for providing yet another top class Enduro XC track, highly worthy of its Championship status.
The Over50 class battle kicked up a surprise result with Trevor Petrie taking a fine win. Second spot went to early pace setter Chris Gregory on his 200 Gasser, and third place went to rideoffroaduk regular Simon Taylor on his Husky. Unusually Championship leader Steve Burton had an off day, Steve still added to his points tally to stay in the lead of the over50 class battle. In the ladies Jade Gordon was kept honest by the ever improving Emily Davy. Emily improves every weekend and her switch to two stroke machinery is now starting to pay off.
A short break in proceedings for track repairs and lunch, it was then time to start the afternoon event. With a record Expert line up which included some surprise top motocross names like Jordon Rose and Kawasaki mounted Ryan Voase making this local event one not to miss, the sparks were sure to fly over the 2.5 hour race.
Clubman honours went to Chris Hughes on his new Suzuki. "Pingu" has found his pace on his new mount and his lap times are a sure indication that a move to the expert class next year is inevitable. Second place went to Neil Marshall who made a cracking start on lap one and stayed consistent right to the end of the race on his two stroke KTM. Early race leader Matty Bell seemed to tire towards the end of the race, although his third place points haul keeps him firmly in the championship hunt for 2010 series. DBT event organiser Jordon Botchett held on to take eighth spot despite not having ridden competitively for some weeks.
Massive thanks to Scarborough and District Motor Club for the continued use
of this fantastic venue. Low North Camp will now be graded and left to rest
until our next visit in Marc NEXT EVENT: Phone Entries Open 07576 095137 info on www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Reeve Tips his Hat. Hatcliffe in the Lincolnshire Wolds hosted round four of the rideoffroaduk Doodson Motorsport Championship last Sunday August 8th. With the Lincolnshire weather being at its best, as competitors arrived in this beautiful part of the country they were praising the ride team for unearthing yet another new venue. With perfect camping and access this venue should develop into a great hare & hounds site which will only be used twice per year. Sunday morning shortly after 10am the signal was given to warm engines. All riders were briefed about track conditions and the importance of staying on the marked course at this new track. As the start flag was dropped by Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook it was Lancastrian Chris Vines who made a lightning fast start on his CR250, fitted with an auto clutch the only slight problem was that Chris's Honda got to the first corner before he did! Then last away Chris saw the funny side of the incident and certainly entertained on lookers in the process. First to come into the MX paddock section was Paul Sykes, Paul was followed by a gaggle of hungry sportsman all looking to make headway from good starts. As the event progressed the short compact lap started to bed in, as the berms developed rider's lap times got faster. Luke Copestake overcame a poor start and got into the lead on his 300 Sherco, disaster then struck Luke when some wire got stuck in his front wheel damaging his brake hose. The ex trials man then rode for over an hour with only the rear brake and engine braking to slow him down for corners, this allowed Stuart Waterhouse to cruise into the lead with Joe Wheeler and Tom Leonard chasing hard. At the finish flag Stuart Waterhouse took the win on 20 laps from the brakeless Luke Copestake. Pete Middleton ground out a great final podium place and in doing so added to his consistent haul of Championship points. As usual the Sportsman class extra lap scenario played its part, Shane Marriot Ian Hayworth and Ryan Newbury narrowly missed out on getting the last lap in before the 2 hour cut off. Two riders had one lap removed from their overall tally after being reported by track marshals for cutting corners when tapes were broke. This proves that as an organisation we will follow through warnings to all competitors in the pre event briefing should any rider be seen to be blatantly seeking to gain an unfair advantage over fellow competitors. The ladies class saw the Jade Gordon pushed all the way by Emily Davy, Jade eventually got the win by a mere four seconds from Davey. Rideoffroaduk Newcomer Liz Childerley took the final ladies podium place for her morning's efforts. The Over50 old lads class seems to be gathering pace as the results get closer each weekend, Eddie Tait used his four stroke BMW to good effect to take the win despite having an early race battle with Steve Burton. Steve made a mistake which cost him dearly in the stream section, this left him with a safe second and good series points to his name. Chris Edge just pipped Chris Gregory into third place. Gregory had to battle hard for most of the race in pain having trapped his finger against a tree. After a longer than usual lunch break and much needed track repairs, the afternoon event riders were lined up and ready to go.
As usual the clubman class fielded a quality line up of riders, with up to ten riders all in with a shout it was anyone's race for the taking. Craig Keyworth made a good start and was one of the first riders back through lap scoring. Matty Bell now equipped with mousses got straight down to work along with Rob Dawson, Jack Kitching and Grant Marsden, all putting in consistent lap times. Luke Flack was upgraded to Clubman for this event to help further this young mans progress through into the top ranks of enduro competition. At the chequered flag James Reeve took the win he rightly deserved after looking smooth and comfortable on his KTM. Chris Hughes out for the first time on a Suzuki heaped up more points by taking second spot, and back to form Matty Bell was over the moon taking his KTM 200 to the final podium position. The Over40 class was won by Mick Rayson, Mick missed being one lap up on the other Over40 class riders by one mere second, this shows the accuracy of the rideoffroaduk timing crew closing the gate right on two and a half hours. Second spot went to Harrogate's Mark Wood on his CR250 Honda, with Simon Nutter grabbing the final podium spot from Stuart Goodall. Only one and a half seconds separated third and fourth after Goodall missed a gear in the final turn. You will get him next time Stuart! The Expert class was won by Scott Austin who is developing into a strong Hare & Hounds rider, Scott is learning each time he rides and his ability to listen to and carry out new techniques is on show for all who witnessed this convincing victory. Tom Healey had to be content with runner up after his poor start, despite Tom pushing hard he had no answer for Austin on the day. Proving that consistency is the key Damian Butler took third place after one of his calmest rides yet. Damo is another rider who benefits well from advice and his switch to four stroke machinery has re-ignited his passion for riding. A big thank you to the rideoffroaduk marshals, in particular Tony Simon and Stuart who had a big job on keeping the steam section moving. Well done to all riders, with only two weeks before round five of the Championship at Scarborough the standings are hotting up nicely. NEXT EVENT: Doodson Motorsport Round 5 at the stunning Low North Camp Harwood Dale Near Scarborough on Sunday August 22nd. Event info & Results on www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call 07802 572023 or 07576 095137 for phone Entries.
The first running of the White Rose XC Enduro took place at another new venue near Silsden in West Yorkshire last Sunday. This event was round 2 of the ACU Events Ltd XC Series which is a three round mini series developed for Clubman and Sportsman. This event was the first this year to be run as a fund raiser for a six year old boy who is in need of a pioneering SDR operation in the US costing his family £45000. Rideoffroaduk are proud to be helping this young mans cause by fund raising at all our remaining events this year. The rideoffroaduk track team had turned this new venue into Hare & Hounds heaven, the undulating grassland, coupled with the two stone bridges over the river kwai, a trip through a disused barn, and the fast open going offered all riders who attended a simply stunning course to compete on. The morning event for Sportsman, Ladies and Over50 was the first to be flagged away. The ride team pride themselves on running a separate morning event which caters for the hobby and enthusiastic band of appreciative riders. This allows riders of similar ability to compete without the worry of fast expert and clubman riders pushing through.
As the Sportsman event reached its conclusion Stuart Waterhouse had ground through the entire field after a poor start to take the overall win. Mid race leader Vinny Mullan earned himself a well deserved second podium place, and first lap pace setter Paul Sykes rounded out the podium in third.
The morning event presentation was completed with trophies and product prizes and goodies from Dunlop tyres and Science in Sport Nutrition. After a short break for lunch and track repairs the Expert Over40 and Clubman classes were lined up ready for the off. A briefing with clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook and the ACU steward saw the Expert riders treated to an extreme loop in the lower woodland section. This turned out to be a real test and something which all experts praised the club for making the extra effort in providing. Ryan Staveley took the holeshot ahead of Scott Austin, Lee Sampson and Craig Reynolds. With Staveley getting stuck in the extreme section on lap one it was up to Austin and Sampson to thrill spectators with the pace they carried through lap one. Lap two was a different affair when Sampson crashed and his Gas Gas handlebars sheared clean off ending his day and series points tally. Manchester Extreme's Craig Reynolds was running in third place setting a good pace despite still returning to fitness after having his collar bone plated only weeks ago. Tom Healey had a reasonable start and was finding his pace in fourth place. They were followed by the methodical Andrew Hackett and Damian Butler both mounted on four strokes looking for strong results.
The Clubman class saw JK Digger hire sponsored Danny Clarke (below) take
the holeshot on his KTM. With the clubman class being as super competitive as
ever, the likes of Rob Pearce, Steve Watson and Jack Kitching were all hoping
for podium finishes. At mid distance trials and MX hotshot Ben Sprigg had
taken his 250f Fro Systems Honda into a commanding lead. James Reeve had Danny
Clarke and Chris Hughes (left) on his heels and Neil Marshall was also on the
pace. Disaster struck Spriggs event as he passed through lap scoring The Over 40 class battle was as tight as ever with Anthony Crowe showing his pace, so much so that a move to the Expert class is on the cards for next season. Howard Blundell earned a great runner up spot and rounding out the podium finishers was Mick Hammond on fifteen laps completed.
Massive thank you from the Whitton family to everyone who generously donated towards evansbigjourney.co.uk, the family were overwhelmed by how kind and friendly our club members are. Well done and see you at our next event, another new venue, Hatcliffe in the North Lincs Wolds awaits Youth and Adults on the weekend of August 7 / 8th. www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for events information.
Round 3 of the Doodson Motorsport Hare & Hounds Championship was fought out high on the hills overlooking the North West of England. Lee Dell was the host for another superb event which featured the full length 5 mile course set out for competitors to do battle on. Saturday afternoon was the youth riders chance to be first on track. Using half the full course the youth riders had a first class track laid out for them to compete on. The Junior class was dominated by Dawson Marriott on his Mansfield Motorcycles KTM 65, runner up was Daniel Buckley on his Suzuki. In the Youth B class Dalton Shannon had a race long battle with Jack Fewings, eventually Dalton held up in the searing heat to take the win. Jack Fewings took a well deserved runner up spot, with Ben Clarke on his JK Digger Hire Honda in third. The track for Sundays Sportsman race saw the most varied terrain used around the Lee Dell Complex. At 10am the full event briefing was conducted before engines were warmed. With the top 25 sportsman championship runners now seeded receiving reserved front row starts, the sharp end of this class was going to be a battle royal. Nick Sims took a lightning fast start and led the riders around the super long lap that Wayne Braybrook and his team had created using old mill ruins, open fields and woodland. With all riders informed about the importance of hydration by event director Braybrook, it was clear to see that all competitors were using his advice to keep a good pace in the ultra hot conditions.
The growing ladies class saw another strong ride from Jade Gordon. Jade revelled in the hot conditions and took a well deserved win. Keeping Jade honest all day was Anna Myers, Anna's consistency earned her runner up spot. Emily Davies took third place on her new KTM two stroke. Such was the competition in the ladies class the top three were separated by less than four minutes. Tara Johnson and Anita Gordon took fifth and sixth and gained valuable championship points.
With less than 30 minutes break, the ride marshals refuelled, track repairs completed, and the main Expert Over40 and Clubman competitors were on the start waiting for battle to commence. As the start flag dropped local ace Damian Butler made his intentions clear taking his Treads Tyres sponsored KTM clear of the chasing pack. Another championship contender Scott Austin was left sat on the line when his 450 Honda refused to start. As the dust settled Austin set out to haul in his class rivals around the five mile course. In the super competitive Clubman class, as in the morning event the top 25 championship riders were seeded ensuring the faster riders were away on track in one group. This proved to be a superb new concept by event directors Wayne and Sonya Braybrook, not only to keep the series honest and tight but also ensuring hobby riders can enjoy the riding around with riders of similar ability. As the time remaining clock ticked down riders were running at a very impressive pace considering the hot conditions. Danny Clarke had made good progress in the clubman class on his JK Digger hire sponsored machine considering he crashed in turn one and was last away. Running at the front of the clubman class fighting tooth and nail were Enduro convert Joe Severn on his Motobrox Kawasaki, Josh Law, James Reeve and newcomer Ben Sprigg. At the finish flag Chris Hughes took the win, using the awesome local spectator support to great effect by grinding out the victory on his YZF250 by 3 seconds. Second place went to James Reeve who did his championship no harm at all hauling in valuable series points. The final podium place went to trials convert Josh Law. With Joe Severn, Oliver Cooper, Rob Pearce and Matty Bell ready to pounce, this class championship is going to be THE most hotly contested during the 2010 season.
The Over40 class was won by Hare & Hounds newcomer Mark Jackson. Mark who is a very accomplished trials rider, now enjoying his enduro riding surprised himself by taking the win. Second spot went to regular runner Mick Rayson and Simon Nutter held off Mark Wood to take the final trophy home. With the rideoffroaduk focus now on the ACU British Cross Country Championship Event at Scarborough on June 20th, and with a new venue just confirmed for our July date, the ride team are very busy ensuring the momentum of this top quality series keeps on moving forward. Massive thanks to the super efficient rideoffroaduk marshals and helpers, we look forward to meeting again in June at Scarborough for their biggest event yet. Visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for event information or call 07802 572023. Results Report: rideoffroaduk Images: ashdigital.net
When the presence of a rider with the experience of Ady Smith rolls up at a rideoffroaduk event, other riders should take note, this man is ultra professional and his approach to racing should be followed by anyone who is serious about competing at any level. Round 2 of the series headed for the superb East Coast venue Low North Park near Scarborough, for what turned out to be a perfect event bathed in sunshine and fine weather. The rideoffroaduk track design team had laid on a 4.4 mile lap which, as promised, had a bit of everything for all riders who attended. 10am saw the popular Sportsman, Ladies and Over50 race fire into life. The first rider out of the paddock woodland section was Luke Copestake on his new 300i Sherco. In hot pursuit were the usual Sportsman contenders - one rider with lots of work to do was young Luke Flack who was dead last away after his bike refused to start on the line. In the ladies class Emily Davy led the class around the first lap with Jade Gordon right in her wheel tracks through the end of lap one. At the finish Jade Gordon took a fantastic win, one lap up on her fellow competitors showing the nimble 125 two stroke machine is hard to beat. Emily Davy took runner up and Tara Johnson rounded out the podium finishers. The Sportsman podium was filled by Vinny Mullan in third place, round one winner Stuart Waterhouse took a fine second place and the win on the day went to an elated Luke Copestake who has bounced up the Sportsman class results due to many hours practice and training. The Over50 Class was won by Eddie Tait on his BMW. Eddie narrowly missed out on being a lap up on his fellow competitors by a mere 43 seconds. Taking runner up spot was Gas Gas mounted Steve Burton, and the final podium place went to Derbyshire man Chris Gregory. After a short break for lunch, and the morning race presentation and results, the afternoon race competitors were on the start line and ready to go. Riding with number 2 on his machine Lincoln Brewster took the holeshot and led the field out of the start area. His lead was to be short lived as the "old hand" Ady Smith rolled out of the final woodland and led the race around lap one. Tom Healey's race had a terrible start when his KTM XC refused to start, this left Tom with an unbelievable amount of work to do. Brewster had close company for the first hour or so battling with fellow Gas Gas rider Lee Sampson. Lee's race came to an abrupt end when his silencer tube broke and his rear mousse broke up too. More hours in the workshop and a few less hours in the pub needed! At the finish Ady Smith had given all other riders a lesson in how to control and win a race. Lincoln Brewster crossed the line shaking his head after having an off day. Scott Austin battled race long to grind out a fine result to keep his Championship firmly on track.
At the finish Oliver Cooper (left) took a calculated win by passing Josh Law in the final woodland section and just heading Law over the line by 3 seconds. Richard Cookland took a well deserved third place on the day. A tiring Andrew Hornshaw battled on to take fourth place after running the whole time without stopping for fuel. The Over40 class battle was taken by Mark Wood on twelve laps completed, second spot went to Simon Nutter who has added to his Championship points tally. Stuart Cryer rounded out the podium and in doing so took home a fine third place trophy. After yet another fine day's competition, the rideoffroaduk championship rolls back into Lancashire for round three of the Doodson Motorsport Championship on May 23rd. A Massive thank you to Scarborough and District Motor Club for their support with our club championship, big thanks goes out to all the hard working rideoffroaduk staff and marshals, you know who you are. See you all on May 23rd. For Event Info see www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Rideoffroaduk kick started the new ACU Events Ltd sponsored three round Enduro XC series into life on Sunday April 11th. A fantastic turn out of riders attended this sun blessed new mini XC series. Norwood Teversal woodland was in the best possible condition, riders praised the organisation after the event for yet again providing another new interesting track to compete on. With the Event tailored towards the Sportsman and vets, the morning event was set in motion by Wayne Braybrook and his team at 10am. With an average lap time of around 10 minutes per lap, the recipe was just right as riders were stretched out over the woodland track.
The ladies class was won by the smallest rider in the paddock Anna Myers, Anna fought off stiff competition from local ace Jade Gordon, only Jades fuel stop kept her away from possible top honours. Helen Lang used her nimble Montesa trials iron to great effect in the woods by nipping around at a good pace to secure third place. Emily Davy and Jayne Tudhope took forth and fifth respectively both on 11 laps completed.
The super competitive clubman class was won by Declan Helliwell on his KTM, Declan won by just under two minutes after the full two and a half hours. Taking runner up place was Motobrox Kawasaki man Joe Severn. Joe has great MX skills and he is certainly making a great XC rider too. Club regular Oliver Cooper opened his ACUe Series points tally with a credible final podium place. Waiting in the wings are at least six other hungry clubman aces ready to mix up round two and make top honours.
Massive thanks to Sutton Falcons and Norwood, once again giving us the opportunity to use this nostalgic venue for Hare & Hounds XC competion. Well done all competitors, with only 3 riders failing to finish, the level of rideoffroaduk events continues to expand. Thank you once again to the hard working rideoffroaduk marshals, job well done. Images ashdigital.net Report rideoffroaduk Next Event Low North Park on the East Coast April 25th.
New ACU Events Ltd Hare & Hounds XC Series Rideoffroaduk and ACU Events Ltd have agreed to form a new introductory Hare & Hounds XC Series to run over 3 events in 2010 aimed at grass roots and Hobby Enduro XC riders. The new XC series has been formed after months of negotiation between ACU Trials and Enduro Chairman John Collins, ACU Events Ltd Frank Carter, and rideoffroaduk event director Wayne Braybrook. Having identified the need for a specific series aimed at the lower ability riders, we have decided to run classes for Sportsman/Hobby, Over40, Over50, Ladies and Clubman. We will run an Expert class but it will not count for overall positions. With many high profile organisers targeting the Pro / Expert class riders we feel that the most heavily populated classes at most Hare & Hounds events deserve their own official XC series. The events will be tailored towards straight forward, safe enjoyable tracks to compete on. This has always been Braybrook's aim to provide for the masses who ride off road events for enjoyment and fun. The Series starts at the nostalgic Norwood Teversal venue in Nottinghamshire on April 11th, Norwood was the place where televised scrambles took place back in the 60's and is littered with history. It is a 100% woodland venue and is a joy to ride. Round 2 takes place on July 18th at the stunning Lee Dell near Rochdale which offers acres of open going in a hidden valley strewn with old mill ruins. The final round will take place on September 19th at a new venue in Lincolnshire. Event information or to enter by phone call 07802 572023 / 07725 161581 or visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for more information.
Sampson shows his strength RideoffroadUK headed for the hills for round one of the Doodson Motorsport Championship on Mothers day. With blue skies ensuring the track was in the best condition possible, a full line up of riders showed the hard work by the ride team during the winter months had paid off as riders enjoyed superb days competition across all classes. As the Sportsman Over50 and Ladies race got underway just after 10am, Chief Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook knew that the track he had prepared would be challenging but very enjoyable for the massive hobby rider entry line up. With the undulating hills winding around the hidden valley, riding past the old mill lodge, and up the old quarry road proved to be a compact yet flowing course. At the head of the field from the off was Stuart Waterhouse on his KTM, he was followed by winter warmer race winner Luke Flack. Making fantastic starts were Steve Dungworth on the big 450 KTM and Shane Marriott using his new found fitness to good effect. Luke Flack was just about holding onto to a soild second place until the Clerk of the course spotted his silencer had lost the fixing bolt, thanks to a very energetic spectator returning the broken item to the pits, and a professional approach in respect of the rule book regarding excessive noise, Luke was signalled to pit to repair his machine. It has to be said this young man and his Father acted in a very responsible manner and avoided a black flag. At the Finish Stuart Waterhouse took the win ahead of Darren Maloney in second with Local lad Alex Clegg opening his Championship campaign with a strong third place. New rideoffroaduk member Mark Wardingley took the Over50 class honours ahead of Paul Outhwaite who is striving to get back his bike fitness after the long winter break.
In a very well supported Over40 class Simon Nutter ensured an impressive 19 lap tally took overall honours, runner up was Mark Wood and rounding out the podium was Mark Waterfield. A big Thank you to the rideoffroaduk Helpers and Marshals, thanks to all the mums for waiting for dinner on the special day. Next Event: April 11th - ACU Events Ltd XC Series Norwood Teversal Nott's. A three round series aimed at Sportsman, Clubman and Vets. Info on www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call 07802 572023.
Smith on the Cais. With a break in the foul UK weather and riders desperate to get back into Hare & Hounds action, the rideoffroaduk crew headed to Lincolnshire for the first of its Winter Warmer Events for 2010. The venue, Caistor, which usually plays host to MX events, was the perfect place for this club event. Most riders used this event as training or to simply blow out the cob webs from the long Winter Break. Sunday Morning at 9am sharp saw the New Youth class fire into life. With the track conditions still very sticky it was always going to be a tough run out for the smaller capacity machines. The Youth A class was won by Elliott Millburn on his 150 Honda, despite some cooling problems on the last two laps he still took the win. Second place went to Jordon Coates on his 125 Yamaha, rounding out the podium was Jonjo Walker; Jonjo had problems from the start when his KTM fouled a plug on lap one. After some pretty swift work from his pit crew he was back on track reeling off the laps. In the Youth B class for small wheel, John Joe Wright (right) was simply head and shoulders above all other youth riders, including the Youth A class. Finishing on a total of 10 laps this young man really did settle in the multi lap format. Dalton Shannon overcame a tough start to get a fantastic second place, the final podium place went to the determined Ben Clarke, and Ben who was on his new CR85 for the first time made the trip worth while taking a trophy back home to Mansfield. With a short break in proceedings to give the Ride track marshal's time to link in the adult track loops, shortly after 11am the full to capacity Adult line up were all ready to do battle. With a host of Expert riders including some top MX boys getting in some endurance training, on lookers were treated to some ultra fast lap times from the off. The race was set at two hours prior to the start by clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook, this proved once again to be a great call considering this was the first ride in months for many Hare & Hounds regulars. In the clubman class it was Lee Smith who was on the pace from the
very start. Lee who openly admitted he was just using the event for
fitness training took his Eurotek KTM to a fantastic win almost 3
minutes clear of the hard charging James Reeve, James netted a fine
second place on 24 laps. The Over 40 class battle saw Mark Waterfield take overall honours on a very healthy 21 laps. Marks pace saw him narrowly miss out on the extra lap by a mere 5 seconds at the flag. Second place went to rideoffroaduk regular Shaun Woffinden on the number 609 Honda. Shaun, who also took second place in the 2009 championship, was very happy with his pre-2010 series warm up. Third place went to Stuart Cryer with a very respectful 20 lap tally. The new over 50 class which caters for the true Vets of the Hare & Hounds world was won by the vastly experienced Brian Roper on 19 laps. Paul Outhwaite took his Gas Gas to a fine runner up spot for his efforts. As usual the most popular class was the Sportsman/Hobby riders. Stuart Waterhouse was victorious after the 2 hour race drew to a close on a highly respectful 22 laps. Stuart was another victim of just missing the extra lap at the cut off point when the finish flag came out. Second place went to young Thomas Kirk who was lapping at a very consistant rate on the 611 machine. Rounding out the podium was rideoffroaduk newcomer Steven Bullas. Steven's MX skills were on full display as he attacked the track and came away with a fine result. In the ultra fast Expert field Tom Healey took Top spot on his 250 KTM. Second place went to the stylish Midlander Josh Bendall. Josh kept his cool on Sunday and showed great maturity as he used this winter warmer event to back up his training for the 2010 season. Third place went to Lancastrian Ben Howard on his meticulously prepared KTM XC machine. Ben showed that his winter training program is working to great effect, his lap times were ultra consistant proving that his bike fitness is back on track for the 2010 season. After a great start to the winter warmer events we are looking forward to the next event at Caistor in three weeks on the 28th Feb. The track will be fully prepared and will run in the reverse direction with some subtle changes. Massive thanks to Thoresway Motoparc for the use of this fantastic venue, to all riders and especially to all our Ride Staff and Marshals for making the first event of the year a huge success. The entry will be restricted at the next Winter Warmer event due to an unexpected amount of day entries at round one. So to avoid disappointment riders are urged to pre-book which is the only way to guarantee a ride.
Next Event Winter Warmer Feb 28th Caistor. 2010 Event Schedule The 2010 season will see a new Premier Doodson Motorsport supported Championship running over eight rounds. A three round ACU Events Ltd series has also been added to our calendar for any riders who can not commit to a full season of Championship events. Classes for: Adult Sportsman - Clubman - Ladies - Over 40 - Over 50 - Expert Winter Warm Ups ACU Events Ltd ALL 3 ROUNDS TO COUNT Doodson Motorsport Best 6 Rounds to count for overall
Championship. - www.doodsonbg.com Special Event Youth Classes for 10 to 15 year olds at Doodson Motorsport Rounds one, four and six. All other information and entry booking on www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call event mobile 07802 572023 for help and advice.
"Bunts Blast" Kirkby in Ashfield Nottinghamshire October 11th. The Rose is in Bloom. Rideoffroaduk have during the 2009 season delivered ten quality Hare & Hound Enduro events as promised at the best venues available to them. With only two out of the ten Championship events being held in wet conditions, and with five different venues used during the season, the ride team has certainly let the events do the talking during the 2009 campaign. Bunts Blast was the final round to this years Championship, held near Kirkby in Ashfield. The event was always meant to be a fun end of year thrash around for all competitors. With the Clubman and Over40 Championship winners already decided only the Expert and Sportsman classes were hanging in the balance. The Midlands area weather had been very kind to our latest new venue, with only a couple of light rain showers to dampen the track into near perfect Hare & Hounds condition. At 10am prompt the Sportsman and Ladies event was fired into life. With the Special test style start field in full view of spectators and teams, it was easy to see who made the best starts as the riders blasted out of the IPONE Oils horseshoe bend and up the fastest part of the track. Series leader Danny Clarke made a determined start with his closest Championship rival Lancastrian Matty Bell in hot pursuit on his 250 Suzuki. Making the long journey from Burnley was newcomer Chris Glass. Chris hit problems straight away as his 250 Honda refused to start on the line, with some help from other pit crew and marshals he was helped on his way and set about the task of threading his way around the track to gain his second finish from as many starts. First back into lap scoring was Danny Clarke on the number 700 machine, around 10 seconds later the chasing pack started to filter into lap scoring. Matty Bell was still in with a shout of being Champ and his determination was clear to see. On lap two somewhere in the woodland area Clarke made a mistake allowing Bell to catch up, only for the pair of them to tangle once more, the fight was on. Waiting in the wings and as usual pacing himself was Pete Middleton. Pete always has a steady start and despite him being a few years older than the likes of Clarke and Bell his race craft and fitness levels always pull him through for strong results. With the fast open going consuming more fuel than usual, riders started to pit for a top up of fuel to avoid running out on track and risking a non finish. After a full 2 hours on track and much to the appreciation of his local following it was Danny Clarke who clinched not only the race win but the overall Championship. Danny has had ups and downs this year, to see him take this class win ahead of his 2010 Clubman upgrade was a proud moment for his family and rideoffroaduk staff. Well done DC. Second on the day and just stealing second overall was Pete Middleton, his race finish as Bunts blast was the strongest all year. Third place went to Stuart Waterhouse completing twenty laps on the number 350 machine, Lancastrian lad Matty Bell dressed in pink for the occasion took fourth place and secured third overall in the highly populated Sportsman class. In the ladies class Helen Lang once again took her trials machine fitted with Enduro tyres to another well deserved win, despite having a coming together with a tree late on in the race. Clare Featherstone confirmed her overall Championship number one position with a solid second on the day. Clare walks away with over £600 of product prizes for her efforts this year so, well done that lass. After a short break for track repairs, results and Sportsman presentation, it was time for the clash of the titans in the Expert, Over40 and Clubman class event. With Scott Austin itching to feed his big 450 KTM gears on the open going, Luke Meredith in no mood to let his grip on the Expert title slip, along with wild card entries like top MX riders Jordon and Jamie Rose out for the first time in Hare & Hounds action, the tension mounted. As the start briefing was conducted by Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook, it was plain for everyone to see that this was going to be a hard fought two and a half hour race. As the flag dropped at 1pm prompt we had a start like never before, it looked more like a GP start as the Experts and Over40 class riders fed into the switchbacks on the first lap. Banging bars from the off were Meredith and the ultra fast starting Jason Hope. With Austin and Rose jostling for position after slower starts on the four stroke machines their intentions were also plain to see, they all wanted the win. Second away were the clubman class riders. With the class title already decided and with class champion Tom Healey on duty at Weston, a few new faces to rideoffroaduk events in the mix meant the clubman class was open and up for grabs. Oliver Cooper out on two stroke machinery instead of his usual 250 four stroke looked like a revitalized man, looking fitter and faster he proved throughout the event that lighter two stroke machinery is the favoured weapon of choice for most Hare & Hounds riders these days. As the event progressed the lap times came tumbling down, riders were using their bikes like never before as the high speed lap proved very enjoyable to ride for all rider abilities. As riders pitted for fuel and drinks, the leaders swapped places in all but the Over40 class. The keen as ever John Lofthouse looked as crisp as ever and kept reeling off the laps on his 250 Yamaha to stamp his name firmly on the vet's class trophy.
The Clubman class win was taken by George Bayliss who completed an impressive 28 laps on his 2 stroke Yamaha. George's pace would have sat him well within the expert class so based on his pace an expert upgrade could be looming. Nathan Bolton took a well deserved second podium place on his KTM, he returned to Lancashire with a nice trophy and product prize courtesy of Hope technology for his efforts. Oliver Cooper took his new Gas Gas to a fine final podium place and in doing so sets himself up with a good chance of taking overall clubman honours next season. John Lofthouse took what he described as an easy win. He was reminded at the presentation that all wins take some earning, he was satisfied with his days competition. Mark Dean stepped up to take second on the day with an equally impressive lap tally of 27. Mick Rayson rounded out the final podium place in the "old lads" class and was surprised to take home some silver wear for his efforts. All that remains is to thank all competitors for supporting this growing series of top quality Hare & Hound events. Our thanks go out to everyone who has attended this year's championship from the hard working marshals and staff, to the families and supporters who keep this sport alive for the masses. Big pat on the back to you all. Our end of year party and presentation date and venue will be announced shortly, all Championship class winners can celebrate and collect the well earned £600 product prize haul; this includes:- Gearne Boots, Dunlop Tyres, Nau Helmets, REP Clothing, Smith Goggles, Hope Bike cleaner and SIS energy drinks, plus lots of other goodies from our commercial partners. We look forward to seeing you all again for our 2010 Championship. In the mean time we won't be loosing sight of our customer base. Starting on October 25th is a series of Enduro practice days. These will begin at Lee Dell Rochdale; the lancs venue will be hosting the first of many practice and training days for riders of all abilities during the coming weeks and months. See www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for further info or call 07802 572023 for advice.
Bell Strikes the Dell Rideoffroaduk made a welcome journey back into Lancashire for round 9 of the 2009 series. With fantastic weather blessing the stunning hill top venue for the week leading up to the event, riders flocked to Lee Dell knowing they were in for a feast of Hare & Hounds action on the new course laid out by Wayne Braybrook. Sunday morning saw thick hill fog covering the Lancashire hills, right on que at 930am it was as though someone had flicked a light switch on and the fog cleared within 5 minutes. At this point competitors could then see what an awesome track was prepared and ready for them to do battle on over the first of two races on the event schedule. Just after 10am, after the usual event safety briefing, the start flag was dropped and the popular Sportsman Ladies and Youth 125 event was fired into action. With no first corner incidents the whole field were safely underway as they spread out over the rolling grassy hillsides. Local star Matty Bell (below) was setting the pace closely followed by John Butterworth. Championship leader Danny Clarke was out on a borrowed 450 Honda and he found out to his frustration just how easy his regular 250cc 2 stroke Honda is to start. Danny was the last rider away with lots of work to do over the 2 hours which lay ahead. After half an hour and with only one wet area on the course causing some problems all riders were circulating at a sensible pace. Rideoffroaduk newcomer Sander Douglas was out on his "Specialist Breakers" sponsored 250 Honda having a good ride round, also showing he has potential was enduro newcomer Richard Solan, Richard has some valuable trials experience, and this was put to good use in the tricky wet section by reaching the top each time stood up on the pegs finding much needed traction. With many new faces joining the rideoffroaduk following, the championship positions were mixed around by riders like Jeremy Ashby and James Allen earning points for top ten finishes pushing title regulars back down the order.
The Ladies class was won by the experienced Emma Ball. Emma knows what to expect from Hare & Hounds events and she finished five minutes clear of Helen Lang, both riders clocked up 8 laps. Helen rode a trials bike with trials tyres on, take note everyone trials tyres offer unrivalled traction in greasy conditions, try one on your enduro bike they work! Clare Featherstone added to her championship points tally by clocking up a useful third place on the day. After the Sportsman & Ladies trophy presentation with product prizes from event sponsor Hope Technology, it was time for the main Expert Over40 and Clubman two and a half hour event to begin. With the track in pristine condition following the morning event, it was good to see a full line up of regular runners as well as a few "Wild Card" riders in the mix. As the Expert and Over40 competitors were given the signal to warm engines on lookers and spectators waited to see who would emerge from turn one in the lead. As the flag dropped Scott Austin (above) leapt out of the left hander going bar to bar with fast starting Jason Hope, Expert upgrade Tom Healey was trying his hand in with the fast boys ready for his 2010 Championship assault he also started well. The human dynamo Dave Salkeld had one of his customary lightning starts proving the so called 'old boys' are well on the pace. Another rideoffroaduk newcomer Andrew Hackett also had a good solid start. The Clubman class riders were next away and it was local lad Chris "Pingu" Hughes who took the holeshot to the amazement of his supporters who stood trackside, handy MX rider Andrew Hornshaw set his intentions out by getting a firm start to the race along with young Reece Moorewood and Oliver Cooper. Steve Watson, who took a podium place back in august at round 7, couldn't quite find his rhythm around the open fields, taking a big crash after catching a rock seemed to hamper his mid race progress. As the event progressed to the timed target of two and a half hours, and with second placed Andrew Hackett retired with fuel breather issues, it was Scott Austin's pace which simply destroyed the opposition. Scott riding with mousse's for the first time, was more than impressive throwing gears at the big 450 KTM drifting around corners in near perfect style. At the flag Scott took the win one lap clear of the hard charging Damian Butler. Damo now getting to grips with his new 200 KTM had a hard battle with young Tom Healey buzzing around. Tom now knows that to compete in the Expert class you have to work hard as riders of Expert calibre fight hard to retain places. Tom and Damo shook hands at the finish line, both riders happy to have earned podium places on the day. The over 40 class win went to Dave Salkeld. Salky was the only other rider along with Scott Austin to clock up 18 laps. Big respect and young riders should take note, experience is everything! Rob Butler had a solid ride to net himself second on the day, he was followed home by Gary Parr on the big Husaberg. Ian Coburn and John Lofthouse finished fourth and fifth in one of the best Over40 line ups in the series to date. The Clubman class win went to Andrew Hornshaw. Andrew set a pace which was almost strong enough to run with the top Experts, despite having to change gloves during refuelling, his pace was good enough to take a convincing win. Local Lad Chris Hughes took a well deserved second podium place despite having a monster crash when he ran wide and clipped a rock. Third place went to rideoffroaduk newcomer Kevin Seward. Sewy who comes from a trials background in the Lake District showed good consistency throughout the event and took home a well earned final podium place. Huge thanks to all the rideoffroaduk marshals and helpers. Your help is much appreciated; all competitors know how hard you work offering advice and keeping the track in top condition. The final round of the series heads to a new venue near Kirkby in Ashfield in two weeks on October 11th where the "Bunts Blast" awaits. Championship class positions will be decided and class winners will be crowned as an awesome 2009 series draws to a close. To enter Bunts Blast call 07802 572023 or see www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for details. Enduro Practice days are then the focus for the winter months, Lee Dell Rochdale will be the host for these highly demanded leisure filled event days. Catering for raw beginners through to experts for £30 per day, rideoffroaduk will continue to improve by providing our followers with more quality enduro events.
Butts Quarry This Sunday Sept 6th All Weather Ride R8 With the week ahead looking set for wet weather for most of the UK, great news for Enduro Hare & Hounds XC fans is that round 8 of the rideoffroaduk series will be situated at the famous Butts Quarry Venue in Ashover Derbyshire. Butts is renown for its all weather track, so whatever the weather throws at us this week riders are assured that we will not be cutting short any races because of wet conditions. Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook will have yet another new look to the Butts Quarry track, as usual he will be working hard during the lead up to Sunday to ensure riders once again get a good quality event. The main Quarry will host the new revised start area, pits / refuel bay will be located very close to the main rider's paddock. With Championship positions now getting very close across all classes, and with a superb product prize fund up for grabs worth over £600 in each class, most our regular runners are already signed up for this popular venue. This event will cater for riders from Beginner to expert, the track will have no stoppers in it, the varied mix of MX track and woodland means the emphasis will be on the competition aspect rather than survival. Riders are reminded that the Central location of Butts Quarry is very easy to locate from Junction 29 of the M1, the event will be signed from Ashover Village with orange arrows. Camping is available Saturday, Paddock entrance road is hard standing. Day Licence available, non members welcome, new to Hare & Hounds riders catered for. Entries close at start, booking in advised. Call 07802 572023 for phone entries or see www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for event schedule.
Rideoffroaduk ran round seven of their 2009 Hare & Hounds XC Championship last Sunday Aug 23rd at the superb Low North Camp Harwood Dale near Scarborough. In the finest sunny conditions the only worry for riders was hydration during the two events, with temperatures in the mid twenties and the sun beating down it made for a fantastic days XC action for competitors and spectators making the trip to the east coast. Sunday 10am prompt saw the start of the popular Sportsman, Ladies and Youth 125 event. With yet another new track layout provided by Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook, riders were keen to get onto the Harwood Dale soil. The addition of new grass areas and a wave section into the MX loop, coupled with new woodland tracks opened up especially for this final 2009 visit and the scene was set for a great day's action. Danny Clarke took the Holeshot on his 250 Honda, closely followed by title chaser Matty Bell from Lancashire. As the riders filtered around the massive XC loop it was Clarke leading from Bell. With the rest of the Hobby riders spread out and with a full 2 hour event ahead of them it was clear that many competitors now understand the importance of hydration during hot races, with most riders taking the opportunity to drink as they approached the Live Lap scoring area the action started to unfold. Rideoffroaduk newcomer Helen Lang made the trip from Manchester to compete on her Montesa Long ride, a bike which raised a few eyebrows as she made light work of the negotiating the technical sections. William Hillas was taking his usual flat out and hang on approach to new levels kicking up the dusty berms where ever he could. James Reeve and Arthur Wilkinson were also putting in some pretty useful lap times. With tired faces starting to show as the two hour cut off approached and with the front runners settled into to position it was Danny Clarke who took the win, despite having a rear wheel puncture on his last lap. With Matty Bell looking tired he was happy to take runner up spot and add to his points tally. Pete Middleton rounded out the podium then kicked himself when he checked the results to see how close he was to taking second spot, admitting he had energy left at the end of the event much to his younger rival's amazement. In the Ladies Class Helen Lang took the win from Clare Featherstone who has increased her championship lead and now looks set to be the 2009 Champion taking the top prize. After a short break for lunch and the Sportsman presentation and results complete it was time for the main Expert Over40 and Clubman class to begin the epic 3 hour iron man battle.
Enjoying a weekend off and despite having not ridden competitively for over 5 years, it was good to see MPS Husqvarna Spanner man Johnny Wardle back out on a bike. Despite worrying about the 3 hour event he was enjoying his time out in the Expert class at a local event. Towards the end of the 3 hour time limit and despite a valiant effort from Meredith closing the Gap to just over a minute and a half it was Scott Austin who took his first and very well deserved maiden ride win. Admitting at the finish he was beaten up after fighting the big 450 around for over three hours he was over the moon to take top honors. Luke Meredith placed runner up and in doing so looks odds on to take this year's Expert series on current form. Josh Bendall filled the final podium place taking his silver wear and product prize home for his efforts. The Clubman Class saw a record number of new to rideoffroaduk events entrants than ever before, as the series grows in providing top class no frills events it was nice to see some new and old friends taking part.
At the finish Tom Healey got the better of a tiring Oliver Hart, Steve Watson took the final podium place after putting in an impressive 16 lap tally. With Hart and Healey moving up to Expert for 2010 the clubman class will continue to be our springboard for younger riders but also providing the working lads a good competitive class to ride in. The Over40 class win was taken by MPS Husqvarna boss Mick Seward (left). With World and European Enduro championship fixtures' taking up most of Mick's time it was nice to see him out at a local event close the team's base in North Yorkshire. Getting in some valuable training before these weekends D2D, all he has to worry about is two blisters healing up on his hand! Nigel Smith took his Colin Appleyard RMZ450 to runner up spot and in doing so adds to his Over40 series points tally. Mark Waterfield rounded out the podium narrowly missing out on the extra lap finishing just 13 seconds over the 3 our time cut off. Massive thanks to Scarborough and District Motor Club, its committee and Club members for allowing us to use this fantastic venue. Harwood Dale is having lots of work done ready for the 2010 season, including new trials sections, land maintenance and general upkeep work. We look forward to working with the Club in the future. Thanks to the trusted rideoffroaduk marshals and officials, too many to list, you know who you are and without you these events could not take place. Next Event Round 8 Butts Quarry Ashover in Derbyshire in less than two weeks so get yourselves ready for the next ride event. Entries available from www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call, 07802 572023.
The Butler serves a feast Round 6 of the rideoffroaduk Hare & Hounds series was hosted by the popular Norwood Teversal venue in Nottinghamshire. With a brand new track having been cut into the woodland venue by Wayne Braybrook and his team of track building assistants, the challenge was once again laid down to our regular riders as well as a few new faces to do battle on what ended up being a real Hare & Hounds Enduro event. After most of the UK was soaked during the bad weather conditions on Friday, Norwood with its free draining woodland, was drying out at a rapid rate during the Saturday pre event track inspection, with the old MX track woodland in perfect condition and the bottom track link looking only marginally greasy, the Sportsman and ladies event got underway at 10am prompt after the usual pre event briefing. With series leader Danny Clarke looking to extend his Championship points tally, and with a few new faces on the start line, no one could predict the outcome of this event. With the whole field safely flagged away onto the course, spectators and support crews waited to see who would emerge from the woodland into the plantation at the front. Local knowledge certainly stood out as Mark Shaw led the field around the first lap with Danny Clarke hot on his heels. The Lancashire boys, Matty "Pinky" Bell and John Butterworth, were all in the mix sporting their trick newly printed riding kit. As the time ticked away and with many riders finding the greasy conditions hard to handle, the track was beginning to dry out, as the leaders lapped at very consistent rates the grip level was getting better by the minute. Around 20 minutes from the end of the 2 hour time the heavens opened and all the now "drying track" once again saw riders fighting to stay on line. At the finish flag Mark Shaw took a very convincing win, one lap up on everyone with a total 13 laps. Danny Clarke ground out another impressive finish for second place, Pete "Trish" Middleton rounded out the podium taking a fine 3rd place on his Gas Gas. With the rain stopped and the Sportsman class presentation and results complete, Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook took the decision to delay the main Expert, Over40 and Clubman race by 30 minutes to allow the track to dry out after the heavy rain which damped the morning event.
The race was on, after lap two Mark Godfrey had hit the front, Lee Sampson was in second and with a leaking radiator which needed attention on the next lap was to cost him valuable time. Damian Butler was circulating at a good rate and with consistent lap times, and not needing to stop for fuel he was soon up to second after the demise of Sampson with the leaking radiator forcing him to retire. At the finish and with the rain once again falling making the track conditions ultra greasy in the last half hour, Damian Butler took his first rideoffroaduk Expert class win. Luke Meredith had worked hard to climb back up to second to secure his points lead in the series with Matt Keeling taking his WR450 to a fine third place. The Clubman class was won hands down by Tom Healey. Over the last year Tom has matured into a top Hare & Hounds rider. His performance around Norwood in his favored wet conditions would have certainly seen him giving the top Experts some serious opposition on his little 144 KTM. Runner up in the Clubman was round 5 victor Oliver Hart, with Tom and Oliver normally locked in battle, on the day Oliver made one or two costly errors resulting in spectacular crashes which cost him valuable time. The final podium place was taken by Richard Cookland who surprised many by muscling his number 337 KTM 4 stroke around the technical track in fine style.
Well done to all competitors who took part in these difficult conditions. This was only our second wet event of the year out of six, still not bad going. A Big "thank you" to Sutton Falcons Motor Club for allowing us to use this fantastic venue. Thanks to all the hard working Marshals - you know who you are, well done. Next Event Round 7, Low North Park, Harwood Dale, August 23rd. For more info see our website www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call Wayne Braybrook on 07802 572023.
Hart Rules the Park Rideoffroaduk returned to North Yorkshire to host round 5 of the 2009 Hare & Hounds Enduro Series in red hot conditions at the fantastic Low North Park facility. With warm weather and blue skies greeting the rideoffroaduk competitors, and with yet another new track for riders to compete on, the scene was set for the 2009 Series to keep up the momentum of providing Quality events for all who attend. After extensive ground work which the Scarborough & District Motor Club have been doing in recent months, Wayne Braybrook stuck to his pre event words and upped the challenge by not only reversing the original highly successful track, but the addition of new loops coupled with the change in direction increased the Lap time significantly to around 14 minutes for most riders. In fact the fastest expert rider could only just break the 10 minute barrier, meaning these events really are true Hare & Hounds Multi Lap events.
Round one winner and Super fast MX rider Matt Moffat had a poor start on his RM250, after the early laps Matt was having problems with rear grip only to find out that his tyre pressure was over 18 PSI!, a quick stop to adjust the pressure saw Moff then able to up his pace and get up towards the front with Salky and Mark Godfrey. At half distance Scott Austin who had made a terrible start when his Big KTM failed to spark into life took the lead from Mark Godfrey, Scott was on a mission and looked as though an epic battle would ensue between him and Moffat, within half a lap of taking the lead Austin's KTM developed a nasty rattle forcing him to retire. At the finish Matt Moffat timed his run to perfection and completed sixteen laps. Tim Pattinson took a well deserved runner up spot to compliment his fine result from the previous weekends North Riding Thorpe Enduro. The Expert Podium was rounded out by Phil Corner. The Over40 class battle saw rideoffroaduk regular and run away series leader Mark Godfrey taking the win from Dave Salkeld on his KTM. The final podium place was held by Lancastrian ex British 4 stroke Enduro Champion Phil Smithson on his little 125 YZ Yamaha. Without a doubt on the day the most competitive class was the Clubman. With Series leader Tom Healey on a roll, and with a handful of other riders capable of taking top honors the class seemed wide open.
Looking visibly tired Tom Healey then took the lead and his crew opted to fuel him on the next lap. With a refuel stop that most F1 teams would have been proud of, Tom exited the pits with the minimum amount of time lost. At the flag Oliver Hart took the win from the tired out Tom Healey. Both these riders are on a sure Expert class upgrade for next season and these epic battles will stand them both in good stead for mixing it with the top boys. Guy Corner took a very well deserved final podium place home. With all riders taking advantage of the Sports drinks supplied by Science in Sport, the usual trophy and results presentation rounded off another perfect day of Enduro Hare & Hounds Action. Well done to all riders who took part, Special thanks to Science in Sport for providing essential Go Sports Drinks to reduce the effects of dehydration. Massive thanks to Scarborough & District Motor Club for use of this awesome venue. Thanks to North Riding Enduro Club for assisting with officials duties, not forgetting everyone else who helps to make these events happen your assistance is much appreciated. Results Next Event Round 6 returns to the iconic 1960's televised scrambles venue at Norwood Teversal Nott's. This woodland based event always attracts a good entry. For Entries visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or for event info Wayne Braybrook on 07802 572023.
Round 5 2009 Hare & Hounds Championship. Rideoffroaduk make a welcome return to North Yorkshire for round 5 of the 2009 series which will take place at Low North Camp, Harwood Dale North Yorkshire on June 14th. The camp which is used as an all year round trials park also boasts a full size MX track, this coupled with the awesome woodland sections, stream crossings tracks and trails makes it an superb venue for true Hare & Hounds events. After a highly successful opening round to our championship held there back in March, the track for round 5 will be in the reverse direction offering riders lots of scope for a fresh challenge. In addition to that as usual Clerk of the Course Wayne Braybrook will have some new ideas up his sleeve to keep the regular riders on their toes. The added benefit to riders is that camping is available from Saturday, the paddock is hard standing and all access roads are permanent fixtures. Scarborough is less than 20 minutes away so that trip to the sea side for families may well see competitors making a real holiday weekend of it. Event schedule is Sportsman & Ladies 10am start, 2 hour event. Expert, Over40 and Clubman riders will take to the track at 1PM for a full two and a half hours. Caterers will again be on site and with the Harwood Dale permanent facility ready to go entries are coming in thick and fast. Non members welcome, Day Licence available and spectators will be catered for with the best viewing areas to see all the action unfold. Call 07802 572023 for info or see www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for entry forms. Image from Chris Hudson features Nick Owen ( Sportsman ) at round 1 back in March.
Round 4 2009 Hare & Hounds Championship Butt's Quarry Ashover. Hillas Kicks Butt's Round 4 of the growing rideoffroaduk Hare & Hounds Enduro series went into Derbyshire last Sunday. A packed Butt's Quarry saw on track action which was just as hot as the scorching UK weather during Sunday's two events. With an entirely fresh new look to this popular venue, Wayne Braybrook had once again provided everyone who took part a new challenging course. This shows that his experience as a top flight rider really does shine through when plotting interesting courses for the 2009 Championship to be staged on. During the pre event briefing event director Wayne Braybrook had advised all competitors on the importance of hydration during the event, it was always going to be a tough event, with temperatures in the high twenties his advice proved very worth while for most competitors.
At the finish flag it was a very popular and well deserved win for the younger of the Hillas brothers. William has now proved that he is worthy of a clubman class ride for the 2010 season. Watch out clubman the blonde haired whippet is moving up. Second place went to a revitalized Arthur Wilkinson, the final podium place was taken after weeks of desperately trying to achieve his goal of top 3 by the popular Danny Clarke on the #700 machine. The Ladies class competition also warmed up with the weather, the Butt's Quarry event saw Clare Featherstone and Emma Ball having increased competition from Tara Johnson and Anita Gordon. With Anita and Emma both out on new bikes the result could have gone any way. At the finish flag Anita Gordon clocked up an impressive 10 lap tally with Tara Johnson in second place. Clare Featherstone took her usual calculated approach to the event and rounded out the top 3 to extend her series points lead. Emma Ball had mechanical problems and had to retire at the half way stage.
Clubman honors went to Ben Hamilton on his KTM, Ben returned to rideoffroaduk events after a break to show that he is a class act on these kinds of tracks. Tom Healey extended his Championship points lead in the Clubman class, he took his 144KTM to a calculated second place after still feeling sore from a crash in the previous week's event. Neil Marshall rounded out the Clubman podium trophy winners. All Trophy winners took away their superb Cups along with the product Goody bags including Sh1t Shifter bike cleaner provided by Hope Technology. We wish Grant Marsden a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on a bike as soon as possible. Thanks to all marshals and Event Medical staff who helped to get Grant on his way to hospital by the safest method possible. Next Event Round 5 at the fantastic Low North Camp facility in Harwood Dale North York's on June 14th where the Championship battle reaches the half way stage.
Rideoffroaduk held Round 3 of the 2009 Hare & Hounds Enduro Championship across the border in Lancashire at the stunning Lee Dell venue on Sunday may 17th. With the black clouds and rain storms working their way west over the weekend it was always going to be a traditional enduro, as most riders now know these events are where Championships are won and lost. The course designed as usual by Wayne Braybrook and his crew was planned to give as much variety as possible, the rolling hillsides overlooking the whole of the North West, coupled with the hidden valley and old mill ruins provided the perfect venue for a real enduro hare & Hounds event. As usual the Sportsman and ladies class were flagged away at 10am prompt, within minutes the whole hilltop venue came alive as the first riders came round to complete lap 1, with the usual runners up front along with the likes of Danny Clarke and Nick Owen getting good starts, it seemed as though this would be the most competitive class once again. Local rider Matty Bell riding his RM250 was setting the pace up front and he seemed to have a good lead. He was closely followed by John Butterworth and Danny Clarke who were going about their days work in an effective and methodical manner. Most of the usual Sportsman were about to get the wake up call, KB Racings owner Kenny Belfield who only decided to ride on Saturday afternoon was making up ground after a poor start on his 450 KTM. As many riders pitted for fresh goggles and gloves, Belfield just kept working away in a steady but very effective way, in fact using the same well prepared goggles for the whole race may well have given him the edge over his rivals, this proves that preparation really is the key to success in Multi Lap events. At the flag it was Kenny Belfield who took the win from Matty Bell in second. Rounding out the podium and celebrating his 20th birthday in fine style was local lad John Butterworth. In the ladies class off road regular Emma Ball did an outstanding job on her YZ85 to complete seven laps, this was some achievement as the two huge hill climbs definitely needed horsepower to crest them. Clare Featherstone showed her steady smooth approach to this course to take runner up. After a short break in the event schedule giving marshals time to change the course to include the old mill ruins section, and to repair other parts of the track it was time for the main race. After the superb morning weather and with rain due at 1pm race director Wayne Braybrook called it just right by setting the race duration at 2 hours prior to the start of the event. This enabled riders to plan pit stops and pit crews to be ready without the worry of if the event would be cut short after the start. Making hot starts in the main race were Expert class riders Lewis Belfield and Jason Crossland (right), the second row of Over40 riders were next away followed by two full rows of Clubman class riders. As forecast the heavens opened and for the first half hour riders were subjected to the full on North West weather at its worst, as riders filtered through lap after lap it was the old determined approach from H&H regular Lincoln Brewster on his trusty 200 KTM who was moving up through the field. Scott Austin aboard his 450 KTM was probably the most exciting to watch up the fast flowing hillsides, from corner to corner he was just throwing gears at the big four stroke and hanging on behind it, this gave the spectators the action they had come to watch. With 50% of the track visible from one central viewing point, support teams were able to track rider's progress and easily make it to the pit area if necessary. At the finish flag Lincoln Brewster took a fine victory, even more of an achievement as for most of the race he had no left hand footpeg after a collision with a rock. Second place was Brewster's team mate Lewis Belfield and rounding out the podium was the hard charging Scott Austin. The Over40 class battle was well supported with over 25 riders in the class, taking a fine holeshot was Craig Chadwick on his Gas Gas 300, with the youthful Mark Godfrey hot on his heals from the first turn. Mark has lots of experience of these kinds of traditional enduro events and this shone through right from the start, his keep grinding work ethic earned him a convincing victory. Making the long journey from North Wales was Gareth Lloyd, Gareth took his Kawasaki to runner up position, again no stranger to hard enduro terrain his skills when it comes to dealing with slippy conditions were there for all to see. Rounding out the podium was John Boden who missed out on runner up spot by a mere 35 seconds. With the fiercely competitive clubman class underway, and with some riders on a sure expert class ticket for next season it was the usual protagonists of Tom Healey, Oliver Hart and newly upgraded Chris Hughes at the sharp end of the class. As conditions faired up the track held together better than was expected but for a couple of areas, the hill climb out of the stone bridge area had a fast line for the brave riders with trials skills, with a longer route for the safe bet option. Both lines were used to great effect depending on if other riders were stuck on the hill. At the finish of the two hour race duration it was local rider Andy Noakley who took a very popular and well deserved win on his return to full fitness. Tom Healey extended his Championship points tally with a solid runner up spot, with Chris Hughes taking his 250F to a well earned final podium position. It has to be said that everyone who finished this event deserves a big well done, this is how enduros were 10 years ago, with the many MX type courses in use around the country, events such as Lee Dell are few and far between, but they are still very popular with true Enduro Hare & Hounds fans. Massive thanks to the land owner and to everyone who helped out at this stunning venue, all the hard grafting marshals, thanks for supporting the series. Our next visit to Lee Dell will be in September which gives us plenty of time to prepare a new course, with over 50% of the venue still to be used its sure to be a cracker. Next event in two weeks time at the popular Butts Quarry Round 4 entries are coming in thick and fast so anyone wishing to ride should call Wayne on 07802 572023 or visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for details.
Round 2 of the rideoffroaduk 2009 series ran at Norwood Teversal near Mansfield last Sunday April 19th. With the midlands weather being kind to us for the time of year, the rideoffroaduk organising team was in high spirits leading up to the event. With lots of new areas available to use at the venue, the stage was set to improve the track used last September to give riders a fresh new challenge. Clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook once again stuck to his pre event words and stepped up to the challenge and didn't disappoint. With the addition of a Sportsman only event on Sunday morning, this allowed the club and hobby riders the chance to enjoy their own 2 hour battle w ithout the faster riders pushing past. At 10am sharp the Sportsman class riders were flagged away, conditions were perfect and right from the off everyone could see that this class which is mainly populated by fun riders was going to be very competitive too. As the leaders found the early rhythm it was Lancastrian Matty Bell out front setting the pace, followed by a group of riders including William Hillas, Nick Owen and Pete Middleton. Chris Hughes was circulating a good solid pace churning out the laps on the little 250F. As the 2 hour time ticked away, and with some riders able to run the distance without refueling and others opting to stop, the places swapped and changed. Going into the last lap Chris Hughes had moved to the front and had a safe last lap to take the victory. Danny Clarke who had been running very strong all race had Matty Bell hot on his heels going into the last lap, with Bells Lancastrian support crew screaming encouragement he pushed on into the woodland to attack for runner up spot. With the exit from the woods being only meters from the finish line, everyone waited to see who would emerge first, Chris Hughes took a well deserved victory, runner up was the hard charging Matty Bell, Pete Middleton took the last podium place less than three seconds ahead of Danny Clarke who had a tough last lap in the hot conditions.
With a one hour scheduled break for lunch, shortly after 1pm the main event riders were ready and waiting to get underway. Ady Smith was a surprise entry at this event and with a rider of his experience sitting on the front row the young guns of Hillas, Meredith and Butler were going to have to work hard to stay on the pace. First into the woods on lap one was Smith, looking smooth and controlled on his 140 KTM, some would be fooled into saying that he would have any easy win coming. At the end of lap one it was over 40 rider Mark Godfrey leading, followed by Smith and Harry Hillas out on his 125 KTM, Buxton's Luke Meredith on the 200 Gas Gas was pressing on hard too. Without doubt the contrasting styles of Hillas, screaming every last drop of horse power out of his machine, with old hand Ady Smith looking relaxed and smooth, proved a pleasure to watch for all who attended. At half race distance and with Smith and Hillas swapping the lead, it was a two horse race as the pair had consistently reeled off laps and had pulled almost three minutes on 3rd placed Meredith. Hillas took longer in the refueling area than expected, Smith used that to his advantage putting in his fastest lap of the day to seal the victory. Hard riding Harry Hillas was runner up just missing out on the extra lap by 32 seconds. Luke Meredith still returning to full fitness was the last podium place and now leads the Expert Championship race just ahead of Hillas. The Over 40 class started at the same time as the expert class, this was won by local enduro ace Mark Godfrey on his 200 KTM. Rideoffroaduk newcomer Tim Sabine took the runner up berth with a very respectable 19 lap tally. The last podium place was filled by regular runner John Brindley.
The top three finishers in each class took away Class trophies, as well as product prizes from Hope technology and the usual goodie bags donated by our industry linked partners.
Massive thank you to all the marshals who attended this fantastic event, without your support and hard work events like this could not happen. Thanks Sutton Falcons Club for use of this fantastic venue. Next Event May 17th The Lanc’s Grand National Rochdale. For entry form or info call Wayne Braybrook on 07802 572023 or visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk
Round 1 2009 Championship off to a dream start. Round 1 2009 of the rideoffroaduk Hare & Hounds championship got off to a flying start at Low North Camp Harwood dale last Sunday. After a break of nearly 10 weeks the rideoffroaduk team were all ready to get the new season up and running to show all who attended just how much behind the scenes work has been done to ensure this series will be packed with quality and value. With a "new for 2009" Lap scoring system that works faster than most transponder systems on the market, coupled with a new staff communications system allowing constant feedback to the timing crew on lead riders, this was the perfectly organised start we have spent weeks planning. Clerk of the course, Wayne Braybrook, had stuck to his pre event words and provided riders with a new and improved track consisting of the old MX track, no fewer than 8 woodland sections strung together with numerous stream crossings tracks and trails. The ex army tarmac tracks linking the wooded areas allowed riders a short breather before dropping back into the technical parts of the track. Our new youth class was the first event on the schedule running on Sunday at 9.30 am for a full 90 minutes, the youth class was treated to use of the full loop without the need for a shortened track proving just how versatile this Yorkshire based venue is. First away were the senior A riders on 125 machines, as the 90 minutes past it was Lancastrian Alex Clegg and Jordy Hayes who had made the long journey from Aberdeen battling for the lead. Hayes seemed content to follow Clegg during the early stages before making his move to the front position. At the flag Jordy Hayes took a well deserved and controlled winning ride with Alex Clegg runner up and George England taking a credable Third. The Senior B class was won by the stylish Scott Altass. Scott looked every bit as though he could have been a top runner from the adult race, pushing the little KTM on the open sections and using style and finess in the technical going, Billy Steinman took runner up berth, after a couple of early stage falls he soon found his feet and settled into a good rhythm to secure a solid finish. Both Youth classes were presented with trophies and product prizes from Hope Technology.
At 11.55 prompt the event briefing took place for the main adult event, As planned shortly after 12 noon the adult event was under way, the usual Expert class were the first to be flagged away and right from the start it was clear to everyone that the level of competition in this class was going to be high. Local rider Tom Hicks took full advantage of his local knowledge and trials experience to lead the way through the technical sections. With the likes of hot shot MX rider Matt Moffat and MX turned enduro ace Luke Meredith making average starts the battle started to heat up. With a good mix of MX and technical going the track proved to be just as Braybrook had planned, a chance for each rider to use their own particular skills to move up the standings. Summer series champ Harry Hillas looked every bit as fast as the lead runners but somehow he just couldn't run with the leaders, an average start and maybe bad tyre choice could be to blame. Rob Reece was a welcome addition to the classy expert field and made his trip from Wrexham, North Wales, very worth while taking third place on the podium with a very respectful 17 lap tally. The battle for top honors went down to the last lap last corner, with supporters around the track encouraging leader Luke Meredith on to what looked like a sure win, and within sight of the finish flag it was the hard riding Matt Moffat who somehow squeezed through and took the win on his RM250 less than 2 seconds ahead of the now runner up Meredith. With Moffat doubled up with cramp and Luke kicking himself for letting him through watch out at future events for what promises to be highly competitive Expert Class Championship. The over 40 / vets class was won by pre event favourite and rideoffroaduk newcomer Dave Salkeld, Salky did his usual reliable focused ride on the Six Days KTM to take the overall win. On 15 Laps taking runner up spot in the event and for the second furthest travelled rider was Wrexham's Ian Barnett, Ian happily took his trophy and product prizes back to north Wales. Hare & Hounds regular Tom Healy looked to be pre event favorite to take the clubman class honors, As it happens week in week out for many riders Tom missed out and getting an extra lap in by a mere 15 seconds allowing Oliver Hart to take a very well deserved overall win in the Clubman class with an overall finish time of 2 hours 37 minutes on track. David Wardell was the runner up with the same lap tally as Hart and finishing less than 45 seconds down on the winner. The Sportsman class again proved to be packed with lots of regular runners as well as many new faces; it proved to be the Lancastrian invasion squad from who were to pack the top places. With one area on the track proving challenging for the sportsman riders in the second woodland section, lap on lap the top few were concentrating on staying out of trouble by making a controlled pass up the switchback section. At the finish line it was Matty Bell who stood on the top step with an impressive 14 lap tally. Second was David Shaw on 13 laps with the younger of the Hillas brothers William bagging third place. Steven Thornton was forth, John Butterworth fifth with MTB specialist Nick Owen grabbing a credible sixth place and winning coolest looking numbers with the 101 plate. Harwood Dale will now rest until we return in June. Now only 4 weeks away is Round 2 at Norwood Teversal on April 19th. Massive thanks to all the hard working rideoffroaduk staff and marshals, you know who you are and your assistance is always appreciated. Special thanks to Scarborough and District Motor Club for use of this fantastic venue. Results
Over 40 1 David Salkeld 16 Laps 02:37:37:879 2 Ian Barnett 15 Laps 02:34:17:611 3 John Brindley 13 Laps 02:34:17:611 4 Marcus Croft 13 Laps 02:34:33:274 5 Mark Oxley 12 Laps 02:31:18:093 6 Steve Shaw 12 Laps 02:33:32:036 Clubman 1 Oliver Hart 15 Laps 02:37:15:177 2 David Wardle 15 Laps 02:38:03:997 3 Tom Healey 14 Laps 02:30:15:533 4 Gavin Williams 14 Laps 02:32:24:108 5 Adam O'Neil 14 Laps 02:33:17:465 6 Ian Harrison 14 Laps 02:34:02:369 Sportsman 1 Matty Bell 14 Laps 02:39:21:168 2 David Shaw 13 Laps 02:32:37:297 3 William Hillas 13 Laps 02:32:56:435 4 Steven Thornton 13 Laps 02:35:09:957 5 John Butterworth 13 Laps 02:35:41:512 6 Nick Owen 13 Laps 02:38:37:555 Youth Senior A 1 Jordy Hayes 9 Laps 01:36:33:880 2 Alex Clegg 9 Laps 01:37:57:156 3 George England 7Laps 01:33:53:698 Youth Senior B 1 Scott Altass 8 Laps 01:30:17:271 2 Billy Steinman 7 Laps 01:39:45:143 Full results Photos available from Chris Hudson
New Youth Class For rideoffroaduk March 22nd 2009 sees the rideoffroaduk Hare & Hounds Championship kick back into life at the fantastic Low North Camp at Harwood Dale in North Yorkshire. With round 3 of the winter series now on hold until a much needed break in the weather helps venues recover to some thing like ride-able, the focus is now firmly set on Harwood Dale in March. The great news for Enduro Hare & Hounds fans is that for 2009 the ACU have introduced a new youth class structure to the ever growing sport of multi lap events. Race director Wayne Braybrook was delighted by the official announcement that finally the keen youth riders who have previously been turned away from ACU events can now take part in the event weekends. It opens up our events for families to now come and enjoy the whole weekend of Youth and Adult action at our new and existing crop of venues. The youth class will be split into two categories, Senior A and Senior B. Senior A riders will be on 125cc machines with Senior B competitors on 85cc, both classes are strictly limited to 14 - 16 year olds. The youth class event will run on Sunday mornings starting at 9.30am and the duration will be 90 minutes, this will give our new group of youth competitor's ample time on track. Trophies and generous product prizes will be awarded to the top 3 in each class. Adult main event will start at 12.00 lunch time so that gives parents plenty of time to clean up from the youth event should they wish to ride the adult class. The Harwood dale venue offers unequalled facilities with its Hard Standing paddock and concrete entrance roads no one will have a problem with access. The course will again use the many woodland sections, full mx track loop with the various stream crossings. We aim to add some extra loops to show that our series really is focussed on quality rather than quantity. Adult entries strictly limited to the first 150 completed forms received through post. This event may well be declared full before the event date so advice is to enter early to avoid disappointment. Adult Entries £40 Youth class £35, day licences available, info and entry forms for adults and youths are posted on the events page of our web site www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk or call 07802 572023 to get your name down.
Round 2 Winter Series
Armthorpe 21st December Round 2 of the rideoffroaduk winter series took place last Sunday in near perfect weather conditions. The event was very well supported by regular riders with our highest number of newcomers attending. With our organization now established as one of best organized in the North of England many riders are now making the change to come and Rideoffroad with us. With all the riders signed on and bikes on the line before the official start time the pre event rider briefing was conducted by clerk of the course Wayne Braybrook. After some new to Hare & Hounds riders caused problems at our first winter series event by course cutting, the entry were informed of the new track marking and penalties on offer should anyone not stick to the marked course. It was simple, any course cutting would result in instant exclusion, with the clerk of the course being true to his word and armed with a black flag should it be needed it was onto the start line for the well attended field of riders to begin the event. As usual it was the experts off the line first and onto the ultra fast field section, with the track in reverse direction for this our last visit to armthorpe the idea was to allow riders to string out and avoid bunching up in the first stages of the lap. It worked perfectly and as intended. First through lap scoring on lap one after his usual cautious start was the mighty fast Harry Hillas, Harry back on form was in no mood to let anyone spoil his winter series campaign, he was to be unchallenged all day and showed great maturity and discipline during the 2 hour race to take a very controlled victory one lap up on the entire expert field. Second in the experts was Shaun Wigan who proved determination was the key to getting a good result. Rounding out the podium was rideoffroaduk regular Damian Butler, Damo once again made the long journey from Lancashire and it was only an unscheduled mid race exhaust change which kept him from doing battle with the top 2 runners. The Over 40 class was once again won by the impressive Ian Shannon, Ian has made the over 40 class his own and has shown that he will be very competitive in the expert field should he make the move in 2009. Second was regular Darren Purdy, Darren's ktm had no rest and his consistent lap times earned him a good result. The last podium place was filled by Simon Bastow who narrowly missed out on an extra lap going through lap scoring 54 seconds after the flag. Our Super competitive Clubman class was the shake up of the day with two regular runners having new some lightning fast newcomers to deal with. Stuart Mowbrey was the top of the Clubman class notching up 16 laps and is a sure fire expert rider for the 2009 Championship season when it kicks off in March. Robert Minnitt took second place with a 14 lap tally, third in the clubman class was Andrew Hornshaw (right), after a small mechanical problem half way through the race which cost vital minutes to repair Andrew was on a mission trying to get back to the sharp end of the class, at the flag he missed second place by a mere 9 seconds showing that these Hare & Hounds events are always won and lost in the last half hour. Andrew now heads the winter series going into round 3 ahead of his closest rival Lee Smith. Lee didn't have his best day at round 2 and getting stuck on the mx water hole section cost him time although his forth place adds to his points tally nicely keeping his series well and truly alive. Once again the backbone Sportsman Class had the regular runners scratching their heads as some ever improving riders edged to the front of this popular class. Mick Reynolds took his second victory of the winter series clocking up 13 laps in the 2 hour duration, Mick now seems to be odds on to take the winter series and well deserved it is. Tim Miller earned himself second place on the day, Tim was another rider who only just missed out on getting the extra lap in which would have seen him on the same 13 laps tally as the class winner. Third place went top Lee Pallett on 12 Laps, John Butterworth took Forth and Ryan Armitage rounded out the product prize winners for this the second round of our ever growing winter series. The rideoffroaduk team now has a well earned rest for a couple of weeks before work begins on round 3 of the winter series on February 8th. Massive thanks to all the rideoffroaduk marshals for keeping the event moving and ensuring no course cutting happened at this venue. We are true to our word and thankfully all riders respected our experience and knowledge of enduro events and behaved accordingly. Merry Christmas and a Happy new year to all our members and riders for making this our first year of events a very positive one, roll on March 22nd 2009 when our first Championship event takes place at the superb Low North Park off road facility, with Hard Standing car parking, full MX track loop, not to mention the woodland sections, stream crossings and general perfect enduro Hare & Hounds track at our sole disposal it will be an event not to be missed.
A Winter Ride Round 1 of the rideoffroaduk winter series got underway at Armthorpe last Sunday amidst the threatening winter weather that we had all been warned was to be arriving over the weekend. At 6am we woke to the sound of not so welcome hail stones and biting icy wind in the paddock area, thankfully lady luck played her part once again and by the time signing on was almost half way through the sun broke through providing a pleasant but cold day ahead for the bumper entry to do battle. The rideoffroaduk crew had spent 4 days marking and pegging the special test style field section of the track, the woodland was kept in by popular demand and the infield MX section found a new more enduro style route between the big scary MX track jumps. With the event underway after a short delay to the 10.30 start time the whole field of Expert, Over 40, Clubman, Sportsman and our new ladies class were out doing battle on the course. Included once again was the mini extreme track, an easy route was marked through the obstacles to allow free movement of riders and prevent snarling up of the better populated classes, this left riders with the chance to pit their skills on the technical side of the track without having the need to battle over logs and tyres. With the event scheduled to run the full 2.5 hours by race director Wayne Braybrook, he stuck to his words and gave all the riders value for money by giving everyone maximum time on the bike. After around 40 minutes it became apparent that a small number of careless individuals had took it upon themselves to cut the technical corners off the special test part of the track, as the rideoffroaduk marshals did their best to repair the damage parts of the track it was clear to see that the culprits were MX riders trying their hand at Hare & Hounds for the first time on big capacity 4 strokes, they clearly didn't have the enduro skills to keep to the marked course. Rider numbers were taken and all our rideoffroaduk regulars can be safe in the knowledge these individuals will not be welcome at our future events. At the finish flag the expert class win was taken by Daz Carter on his 250F KTM, this is proof that technical ability and style can win at one of the fastest going tracks we have available without the need for blatant cheating. Second in the experts taking a hard earned and well deserved results was Rochdale's Damian Butler, 3rd place went to Summer Series Champ Harry Hillas with another Lancastrian Ben Howard taking forth place on his return to full fitness. Our Ladies class was won by the impressive Jane Daniels, this young lady really has made the ladies class her own and clocking up an impressive tally of 15 laps would have left her at the sharp end of a couple of the other classes, "watch out boys ", Emma Ball took second with an overall time of two hours thirty five minutes well done Emma. As the saying goes cream rises to the top this was certainly the case in the clubman class with Lee Smith taking the win on 17 laps, he just pipped Ripon based Andrew Hornshaw with Lee Hattersley rounding out the podium. As proof that some of the super fast clubman are well on the way to the expert class ranks, the entire top 10 places finished on 17 laps separated by only 7 minutes. The Sportsman class was once again the largest, Mick Reynolds was overall victor completing 16 laps and winning by as considerable 4 minute margin. Second place went to Gary Aitchison and the last podium place was filled by Alan Flint. Forth place went to Simon Chatham who pipped Pete Middleton by only 39 seconds at the flag. Top of the Over 40's class was Ian Shannon on 17 laps; second place was John Brindley with Andy Barford taking third two laps down on the leader. Forth Place went to Bryan Roper with Steve Sharpe stealing fifth place by only 44 seconds at the finish line. Our usual top class trophy and product prize presentation was not carried out on the day due only to the number of riders reporting course cutting, the presentation from this event will now take place at our next event on December 21st. After scrolling the lap times and looking into the issues on the day we are now happy this will not happen again by the individuals who caused the problems early on in the event. Rideoffroaduk prides itself on staging quality events for Hare & Hound enthusiasts, we will be having discussions with the tenants from the outfield sections of the armthorpe land as there is a very real possibility this land can't be used again due to the course cutting incidents. Riders you ALL have to behave responsibly or loose your sport. Massive thanks to the land owners and all the hard working rideoffroaduk team, without the team effort these events simply couldn't happen. Next Event back on track December 21st, watch the web site for updates.
Norwood Teversal, a welcome return. The rideoffroaduk team headed to Norwood near Teversal in Nott's for the final round of the Summer Series for 2008. Norwood was the host for many televised scrambles during the 60's and 70's and was last used for MX over 10 years ago, Wayne Braybrook and his team spent the week leading up to the event plotting an entirely new Enduro multi lap loop which was to see all riders having the chance to compete in perfect conditions for a full two and a half hours at this fantastic venue. Shortly after 11 am the Expert and Over 40 class were flagged away, during the pre race rider briefing all riders were informed of the greasy conditions due to some morning drizzle that had thankfully swept through the Midlands area and moved eastwards. At the end of the first lap it was Mark Godfrey who had taken notice of the advice from Clerk of the course during the briefing and came through the lap scoring area in the lead, he was closely followed by Richard Elwood Lee Sampson with Harry Hillas looking in determined mood after his usual steady start. With the course drying by the minute and its clay base layer ensuring no ruts would develop all the experts circulated at a pace far quicker than was originally anticipated, Mark Godfrey had an excursion into the trees on lap 2 or 3 and lost his front mudguard off his KTM, thankfully with very little mud around he was able to continue without too many problems. Hillas meanwhile was upping the pace and the two swapped places up to the last couple of laps and when Godfrey stopped for fuel giving Hillas the breather he needed, Harry then stamped his authority on yet another rideoffroaduk event proving he can come up with the goods when needed. Trials ace Lee Sampson took a credible 3rd place with local rider Jon Birchall only one lap down on the leaders at the end. Richard Elwood's Honda suffered overheating problems forcing him to retire at the one hour forty mark which robbed him of a solid top 3 finish. The over 40 class battle was one of pride, with Steve Poulsom having to only finish the event in the points to take the overall in this class his methodical approach saw him cruise round for a 21 lap tally and fifth place, this was enough to take home the Summer Series Overall and a Brand new Pair of Gaerne boots for his efforts courtesy of Malcolm Rathmell Sport. Victor on the day was rideoffroaduk regular Simon Critchley completing 22 laps, second place went to John Bowden who missed the win by just over a minute, David Baldwin rounded out the podium with Darren Purdy coming home in forth place. In the clubman class we had many new faces at this final round leaving Standings leader Lee Smith with all the work to do to ensure he came away with the overall in class win. Ben Hamilton was in a good position to spoil the party and had an outside chance of taking the overall in the Clubman class with a good result at Norwood. Also stepping up to the challenge were the boys from Motobrox in Derby, all regular MX riders they decided to give the Enduro Multi lap discipline a go and by no means were they outclassed. After a show of controlled riding at the chequered flag it was Jason Hope who took the win completing an impressive 24 lap tally, second place went to Chris Neesan with rideoffroaduk newcomer Josh Taylor overcoming mechanical problems on his 125 Yamaha to round out the podium. Lee Smith used all his recent experience gained at Red Bull Romaniacs to dig deep and secure 4th place and the overall title as clubman class victor, Ben Hamilton's charge for the title chase took a nasty blow when he crashed on lap 21 twisting his knee badly and was unable to continue. Fifth place went to stylish looking newcomer Joe Severn who will be one to watch at future events. Once again the Sportsman class as well as being the backbone of our sport it also proved to be the most competitive class with any one of 7 riders able to take the overall class standings should there be any problems for riders at the sharp end of the points table. After a two and a half hour display of what can only be described as calculated riding Thomas Healey took a well deserved class win and overall title aboard his 144 KTM, admitting to having only slipped off once during the event Thomas proved that his upgrade to the Clubman class for 2009 is much needed for him to develop into a more confident Multi Lap contender. Second place on the day went to regular runner Matt Strong, Matt again proved his recent run of form continued by securing a very solid second step on the podium. The final podium place went to Shaun Redmond who completed 22 laps, Simon Walsh made a worthwhile trip from Lancashire taking home well earned forth place points to secure second in the overall standings. Harry Hillas's younger brother William took a credible fifth place on the day back to Yorkshire with him.
The overall winner of each class receives a brand new pair of Gaerne boots for their efforts courtesy of UK Importers Malcolm Rathmell Sport. With the rideoffroaduk summer series wrapped up work now begins on the winter series which will see a five round Championship running through to February 2009, details will be posted on our website. Massive thanks to all the hard working rideoffroaduk marshals and well done to all riders who competed with us during this season, until next time that we Rideoffroaduk. Report: rideoffroaduk Images: rideoffroaduk
September News Summer series Standings now posted on our website. Details Final round Summer Series Norwood Teversal 28th September. Winter Series FatCat moto-parc Having made a great success of our first event on 31st August at FatCat moto-parc the rideoffroadUK crew is now very confident that our winter series will be one not to be missed. The track was fantastic and with some small changes to be made for the winter series the lap times should increase by around 2 minutes. This venue is virtually an all weather track and with the UK weather serving up more than its fair share of rainfall we know that getting in and out of this site and providing riders with a rideable whatever the weather track is a must for events during the winter months. For those riders who missed this cracking event don't make the same mistake twice, for those who attended get booked in for the winter series as we already have a lot of interest from riders wishing to compete at this superb facility. Check out the images of all our award winners from the last event. FatCat moto-parc Event Award Winners
Well Done All Award Winners from rideoffroaduk
Brewster Storms the Park Rideoffroaduk Round 4 Summer Series Results Round 4 of the rideoffroaduk summer series headed for yet another new to enduro Hare & Hounds venue. FatCat moto-parc was the latest offering from the rideoffroaduk crew, this completely new enduro course with its woodland section complimented the awesome MX track, loamy fields linked the MX track and Enduro loop providing riders with an awesome multi lap enduro course. Added in was a WEC style grass special test to keep the competitive spirit going and ensure riders were able to use their bikes to the full potential. Shortly after 11am the full to capacity Expert class were flagged away, with this class having to negotiate the newly constructed extreme section it was certainly going to make all riders work hard. Lincoln Brewster took the hole shot and emerged from the MX track in the lead closely followed by rideoffroaduk newcomer Scott Austin who was really showing his intentions of keeping the regular experts honest aboard his big KTM. The ding dong battle saw the lead change several times between Brewster and Austin, Brewster seemed to be able to make up time in the technical going whilst Austin's full on attacking riding style saw him close the gap on the fast flowing field sections. Expert series leader Harry Hillas was never far behind and after his usual steady start soon started to reel off the laps in his consistent way. At the finish flag it was Brewster who took a highly deserved win less than two seconds ahead of Scott Austin. Harry Hillas rounded out the podium with this years most improved rider by far Lewis Belfield taking a credible forth. Alex Owen rounded out the Expert prize winners in fifth. With some new faces in the Over 40 class the championship points tally will now ensure that the summer series will go down to the last round to decide the overall positions. CF Racing's Gareth Lloyd made the long trip from North Wales with WOR's Steve Ireland to enjoy a weekend of competing for fun and enjoyment aboard his big 515 Gas Gas. Well respected as the UK's number 1 off road events promoter Steve showed his support to the rideoffroaduk series and enjoyed having a ride out with no pressure. At the flag it was Gareth Lloyd who took the victory and a pocket full of points from the consistent Mark Malony in second. Third place went to rideoffroaduk regular Simon Critchley with Darren Purdy taking forth place and being the last over 40 on 14 laps, Steve Poulson took 6 valuable series points home for a well deserved fifth on the day. Ben Hamilton was the run away winner in the Clubman class completing his 14 laps and stamping his authority on this ever popular class. The likeable Richard " Biddy" May had a return to Hare and Hounds events after a break of over 3 years to emerge as runner up aboard a borrowed 2009 Gas Gas from Importer John Shirt. Lee Smith proved his return to fitness is well underway by taking third place. Paul Mulholland netted forth place with newcomer Piers Waddington taking a well earned fifth. As usual at rideoffroaduk events the Sportsman class was well supported, Mathew Chamberlain was the fastest man on the day and proved that his speed is worthy of an upgrade in class fairly soon. Tom Healey was super consistent with just one lap thwarting his bid to take overall honours on the day, again Toms speed is showing good and for 2009 he can only grow into a more established Multi Lap contender. David Haith took the final podium place with Scunthorpe teamster Matt Strong gaining a credible forth. Simon Walsh just pipped Paul Brown to take the last product prize bag home. Amid an emotional week for all the crew we must say a huge thanks to FatCat moto-parc for their continued support, particularly Martin and Sarah Craven, huge respect well done all. Final round summer series September 28th.
Milner Grabs Harwood Dale Low North Park Harwood Dale was the setting for the latest event of the summer series from rideoffroadUK. With the MX track at this superb venue not being used for over 3 years the course was prepared in the days leading up to the event by Wayne Braybrook and his team with one thing in mind, the objective was to allow all riders the chance to go full race distance 2.5 hours on a track that would hold up without the need to cut out loops or have riders stuck on any part of the course. With the weather forecast looking good for Sunday on the east coast, the 6am wake up call brought blue skies to many smiling faces, with most riders having never ridden this venue the opportunity to view two sighting laps conducted by Wayne Braybrook was the medicine most riders needed after the previous weeks excessive rain fall. Shortly after 11am the Expert and Over 40 classes were fagged away followed by the clubman and Sportsman classes. With Pre race favourite Andrew Noakley's bike failing to start on the line this left the likes of Milner and trials ace Tom hick to do battle during the early laps. Sam Taylor used his experience in these wet conditions to continually reel off lap after lap at a good pace. Eventual winner Rich Milner showed real determination during the 2.5 hours and his timing on the penultimate lap saw him finish 1 lap up on Dan field who took a well deserved second place. Sam Taylor rounded out the podium places followed by Hick and Noakley. In the well supported Clubman class Ben Howard looked super confident in the greasy conditions and took the winners spoils clocking up an impressive 15 laps in his 2 hour 38 finishing time, second place was Russell Taylor and Alex Collins took the final trophy for a hard fought third place on the day. Harrogate rider Lee Smith was enjoying his day and took home forth place on his return to full fitness, he was followed by Alex Finnigan rounding out the top 5. . As usual the Sportsman class provided some of the most competitive rivalry on track, with the Scunthorpe connection providing most of the entertainment during the race many of them having only just started riding enduros it became clear that the emphasis on this event for this team of riders was to enjoy a day off road riding. Gareth Parr was the man on a mission reeling off an impressive 11 lap tally in 2 hours 35 minutes, Simon Walsh didn't let the mid race shower hamper his progress through the field taking the runner up berth and rounding out the top 3 was Craig Ridgley both riders clocked up 10 laps. Spare a thought for Jez Newbery, the Scunthorpe team leader who was the last rider home after 2 hours 56 minutes of riding on his CRFX, with the whole support team at the finish to see him home this was some achievement, well done. The Over 40s dual was a clean cut affair with Gary Parr earning himself a possible upgrade to the expert class for the 2009 season by winning convincingly from 2nd place rider Gareth Wilkinson notching up 12 laps. Rounding out the top 3 was Roger Worsley who's consistency during the race really showed through. The battle of the Steve's was for forth and fifth places with Poulson just getting the nod on trials convert Steve Shaw. Massive thankyou to Scarborough & District Motor Club and all the hard working rideoffroadUK marshals, well done team. Next Event 31st August Armthorpe.
After a recent visit to the awesome facility at Fatcat Moto-Park Armthorpe, Wayne Braybrook has signed a deal with the sites development chief Martin Craven, to run a 3 round Winter Series, running on an entirely new Hare & Hound Enduro Course to be constructed over the coming weeks ready for a pre-winter series event on 31st August. The new Enduro course will have use of the MX track, surrounding fields and an awesome woodland section which will link in to provide enduro riders with a jaw dropping place to ride. The site has permanent facilities including toilets and catering. The parking is hard standing with room for over 200 vans. Winter series events will have a training school running the day before for a maximum of 10 riders. These will be guided by ACU registered coach Wayne Braybrook who needs no introduction to off road riders in the UK. His wealth of knowledge when it comes to training enduro & trials skills are the best on the planet and his method of delivering that info is simple and informal. The Fatcat Moto-Park will be open for enduro practice with Wayne Braybrook on hand to give advise and tips, you can also book a one hour one to one training session during practice days with Wayne if you so wish. Visit www.rideoffroaduk.co.uk for practice day schedule or call Wayne on 07802 572023 for more information. |
A
record number of keen youth riders did an amazing job of getting around
the Norwood track. Cole Cookland took the Junior class win ahead of the
gritty Jaysi Austin, and local lad Juan Birchall finished third in class
in his first race.
Some
riders really do impress in the wet conditions, stand out rider of the day
was Joe Webster, Joe's transition to clubman for 2012 has done little to
dampen his appetite for success, and he took his Shock Tech suspension
modified KTM to a superb win. Championship round 2 winner John Steeples
made a bad day good by securing a solid second spot, and Big Rich Cookland
earned a fine third spot after his pal Lee Hattersley offered on track
advice in the difficult sections of the course.
With a packed start line ready for the first of two adult races, and
the whole track loop ready to go, riders were flagged away shortly after
10am. The top 20 sportsman from round one were able to sit back on a Darensafe
first line start courtesy of their seeded wrist bands, RideoffroadUK keep
the top 20 sportsman challengers seeded at each event, and this is a great
incentive for riders to keep pushing for championship points in the
biggest class on offer.
The
Expert field was shaken up after around 30 minutes when Tom Healey hit the
front ahead of the hard charging Scott Austin who was pressured most of
the race by Biff Smith on his Sandiford supported KTM. Healey then got a
healthy one minute cushion which he was able to control to the finish
line. Scott Austin kept him honest by pushing as hard as only Scott knows
how to, despite still suffering from the after effects of a virus. Biff
Smith used his experience to cruise to a safe third place to hold on to
joint lead of the championship with Scott Austin.
Soon
after the start a small crash cost Austin dearly as a damaged throttle
cable saw a premature end to his early lead. Making great progress after a
lousy start was Tom Healey, after lap 7 Tom had caught and past all the
Expert riders to go on to take a superb new year win on his dads KTM300.
Biff Smith limped home in second on a misfiring KTM which seemed to be due
to water ingress. Trials ace Zac Sherwin showed great determination to
gain the final podium spot in third.
All
things considered this Winter Warmer event was a resounding success, all
riders admitted to needing valuable quality track time ahead of this
year's championship calendar.
Ironman
Extreme
A small Speed Trial event ran between races, in an anticlockwise
direction, laying down foundations for the enduro riders to follow in the
main event of the day.
Approached from a riverbed the first sight riders saw was the dozens of
marshals waiting to assist, a sign that this was possibly the toughest
part of the whole course with just two routes through it. The most
straightforward route was through the mud and rocks, up a steep climb,
which lead to another rock-strewn gulley section. The hardest route out of
the riverbed was a very steep bank with a big step at the top of it onto a
ledge, which provided relative safety. Many tried this hard option but
only a handful succeeded without any assistance. As the race continued
this section became harder, the water from the riverbed carried into the
mud and onto the rocks making life very difficult.
The Sportsman class saw the closest finish of the day as Julian Holmes
beat John Steeples to the finish line by just 12 seconds as Joe Wheeler
took third just over 5 minutes behind them.
The
Youth competitors once again ran on Saturday afternoon in a 90 minute
event. This turned out to be the clubs best ever Youth entry, all the
Youth riders were treated to the full adult track for this final round.
James Latta took a convincing victory in the Youth A class, young Reece
Pickersgill drew his Doodson season to a close with a great win ahead of
Championship winner Dawson Marriott.
The
Over 50 Class was won by TGOR founder Martyn Field (right), Mark Paine
secured second spot and in doing so took the overall championship win
despite suffering with a sprained ankle. John Brindley held a good pace to
take the final podium spot.
Making
one of his trade mark lightning fast starts rideoffroaduk team rider Andy
Noakley set the early pace, he was followed into the Xtreme log section by
Clubman champion Rob Dawson now upgraded to Expert status, with Scott
Austin, Harry Hillas and Damian Butler all in hot pursuit. A small coming
together after the Xtreme section with Noakley and Austin saw Noakley's
pace drop off for one lap, on lookers were surprised as Noakley pulled out
of the event whilst closing the gap on eventual winner Scott Austin. Harry
Hillas out on his brand new Wulfsport KTM was on his usual full on attack
mode until his 300XC cried no more taking a boot full of dust. Danny Morse
had a sensible, mature ride using good advice from Mr Braybrook to net a
great second spot. Ryan Staveley completed his Weston Beach Race
preparation by grinding out a stunning third place despite a big crash off
the start.
Clubman honours and neatest rider through the Xtreme section on every
lap went to Anthony Tempest. Ant's trials skills were on display as
spectators applauded his "feet up" attack on each lap.
Rideoffroaduk regular Grant Marsden took his first ever podium after a
fine gritty performance.
Steeples
looked like a man on a mission as he clocked up laps at an astonishing
rate but his fellow Sportsman riders matched him lap for lap even though
he did eventually take the race win by a clear five minutes. Joe Wheeler
gave chase and took second spot followed by Joe Webster, Kris Weston and
Darren Skillin, all on fourteen laps.
Crossland
(right) and Hope were glued together for the first half of the race,
Crossland making time on the open going as Hope excelled in the technical
stuff. Hope eventually dropped from the front after twelve laps as his
finger played up, giving Crossland his first ever Veterans win, on his
birthday. Kev Hipwell picked up the pace as the race closed and moved to
within thirty seconds of Crossland, taking second place ahead of Justin
Carter in third, all three on eighteen laps.
Sunday
dawned on the Lancashire hills and at last the weather was kind to Rideoffroad.
Course running in the reverse direction was designed to run on the driest
parts of the Lee Dell Complex, due to great planning and superb marshals no
parts of the course were cut out at all.
The
Expert open solo Ironman class was another close battle with Alex Owen taking
a great win ahead of Luke Copestake, another local ace Matty Solan took his
KTM to a fine third place.
Chocolate
box scenery, beautiful summer weather, and a brand new Hare & Hounds
venue, this was the offering from rideoffroaduk forming round 7 of the
Doodson Motorsport Championship near Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire.
In
the Beginner class all riders could not have hoped for a more enjoyable
event. With track conditions in perfect order, it was smiles all round as
the grass roots class riders enjoyed what was probably the best event of
2011 from all angles. After a small mix up with one rider entered in the
wrong class, the beginner class victor was Dale Jones on 13 laps
completed. Sean O'Brien grabbed another handful of points for second
place, just edging out Craig Law who rounded out the podium for round 7.
Expert
championship leader Harry Hillas had a great start and edged out a massive
lead until a snapped chain saw him pushing back to the pits for repairs.
This left Tom Healey with a comfortable lead allowing him to cruise to the
race win ahead of his nearest rivals. Chris Pingu Hughes had the hardest
job of the day, with Hillas's chain repaired, he was clearly rattled and
on a mission to try and get back to the front. Fair play to both Hughes
and Hillas, right up to the finish flag they were not backing off for
anything. With pride at stake Hillas lunged at the final lap scoring gate
only to see him on the deck with Hughes trotting through to second spot by
a mere three seconds. Hillas settled for third place points and never to
use a standard chain again!.
Tom
Healeys day came to an abrupt end when the Eurotek KTM rider's rear brake
failed making it impossible to try and be competitive against the rest of
the Expert field. Two more laps in and another KTM hit failure, Scott
Austin's 300 XC had an engine gremlin strike again which left Championship
leader Harry Hillas with a commanding lead. The fly in the ointment was
Jack Twentyman. Jack who is vastly experienced in Enduro events really
took on the young guns and made them all realise that age is no barrier
when it comes to racing enduro. Andy Noakley went into cruise mode when
arm pump stuck the Lancashire lad, this allowed Chris Hughes to catch up
before his KTM 350 TPS sensor failed sending him home with nil points.
Craig
Law took another great win in the beginner class, he was chased home again
by Simon Walker, with Dale Jones grabbing a great final podium spot. A
great Vets line up saw Mark Paine taking the Over50 victory. Howard
Blundell grabbed the Over40's victory and now takes the championship lead
despite not having a drinks system for the whole event!
The
Sportsman battle goes on and it looks like the Championship will go down
to the wire for the top 5 places. John Steeples took a great win, he was
kept honest by Kris Weston on the 219 machine, and Joe Webster grabbed
third spot ahead of Nick Sims who suffered again with a slow starting 350
KTM.
A
Le Mans style start for round one of the Doodson Motorsport 4 hour Ironman
Challenge was simply awesome to see and be a part of. Riders were allowed
to warm their engines before the event start, marshals had in place a 15m
line behind the start which riders had to stand behind before the start
siren was deployed. At 11am 55 riders running to their machines urged on
by spectators was a spectacle for all to see.
11am
saw the adult race fire into life, Fast starting rideoffroaduk team riders
Scott Austin and Andy Noakley led the field around lap one. Meanwhile
Championship leader Harry Hillas left himself with lots of work to do after
being almost last away from the start. Hillas soon into his rhythm and fired
up for the win, didn't disappoint, pulling a lead of over two minutes meant he
was able to grab the extra lap and take clear victory as the clock counted
down. Second for most of the race despite his best efforts was Scott Austin
after a collision with a tree hampered his progress. Andy Noakley stayed out
of trouble and got his championship hopes back on track taking third place
points.
With
track conditions not really changing once the berms had developed, Jade Gordon
pressed on to take the Ladies class win against a returning Becky Dawson.
Beck's who has not been on a bike since March this year has now got the taste
of competition back. Anita Gordon took the final podium place.
The biggest race of the day, as always at rideoffroaduk events, is
the morning event packed with Sportsman, beginners and Hobby riders.
With the trophy presentation and results completed from the morning
event, it was the turn of the faster riders on track for two and a half
hours. Lightning fast starts from the Expert class riders saw
rideoffroadUK team men Andy Noakley and Scott Austin lead the field
around lap one. The chasing pack led by Lincoln Brewster and Chris
Hughes filtered through the first tour. Championship leader Harry Hillas
had a below par start and had work to do. With Noakley having problems
with arm pump, and Brewster calling it a day after a heavy fall, Scott
Austin controlled the race to perfection and took the win. Harry Hillas
secured second spot and extended his series lead, Tom Healey ground out
a fine third place after a heavy fall on lap one.
Early pace setters John Steeples and Tom Leonard were to be inseparable for
the entire two hours, Steeples pace, passing lapped riders kept him just under
one minute ahead of Stockton heating engineer Tom Leonard, who now moves to
third in the Championship. Lancastrian Alex Clegg rode his socks off taking a
fine final podium place back to Whitworth for his efforts.
As the track began to berm up and passing lines developed, Steve Shaw took
his second win of 2011 on his trusty old Gas Gas 300 in the Over50 class,
Steve was pushed all the way by John Brindley, with Eddie Tait making a
welcome return to ride events taking his BMW to third spot.
At around the 45 minute mark, Harry Hillas took command of the Expert Class
on his Wulfsport MM Acquisitions backed KTM, gaining a lead of around one
minute over RideoffroadUK team rider Scott Austin, Austin racing on the
rideoffroadUK Husaberg TE300 due to a mechanical problem with his usual KTM XC,
looked comfortable during the event, although towards the end of the race his
pace dropped off in the hot conditions. Tom Healey had an awkward crash trying
to pass old hand Mr Brewster, which forced him to retire in some discomfort.
The
second round of the Doodson Motorsport Championship, sponsored by the Doodson
Insurance Group, and organised and run by Rideoffroaduk, saw something a
little different over the weekend. Event organisors Wayne & Sonya
Braybrook had secured a brand new venue at Helmsley, North Yorkshire, which
gave riders the opportunity to test their skills over a technical woodland
course.
Set
in 150 acres the mature woodland course twisted and turned through the trees,
providing plenty of technical challenges, which were appreciated by many of
the riders who had a trials background. The course provided a ten-minute lap
over which most riders only occasionally got into third gear but the course
was terrific and a real change from the ‘normal’ XC type of flat-out field
event.
After
lunch the main race gave the riders something more to get their teeth into.
The Expert race was dominated by Harry Hillas with Scott Austin in 2nd and MPS
Racing's Jack Rowland in 3rd. All 3 riders completed 17 laps. Dave King won
the Over 40s. Howard Blundell was the runner up and Mark Wood was 3rd.
Rob Dawson held off the clubman regulars to take his second Championship win
of the year. Luke Flack was 2nd, Stuart Waterhouse was 3rd, Richard Cookland
was 4th and Jordan Botchet was 5th
The
Ladies class was dominated by Katy Bullock on her 125 MPS Husqvarna, Katy had
a superb race pace, she used it well to make MPS Husky boss Mick Seward a
happy man as it’s the teams first win of 2011. Runner up spot went to the
gutsy Jade Gordon, with mum Anita Gordon back to full fitness performing well
in the difficult conditions.
The
clubman class was won by MX guru Mark Reville, Mark used his Caistor knowledge
to great effect as he took his first Enduro Hare & Hounds win on his
CRF450, beating off some stiff opposition. New rideoffroadUK race team runner
Rob Dawson netted a good second spot despite loosing 3 minutes when his Gas
Gas fouled a plug. Luckily Rob had a spare in his drinks bag and was able to
get going again without too much time lost. Lee Stansfield rounded out the
Clubman Podium.
he first lap he had pulled a sizeable gap on his rivals, his
nearest title rival Luke Copestake had a poor first lap getting stuck behind
riders which gave Waterhouse the advantage. As time wore on many riders were
changes places, this event was a traditional enduro course and it was clear to
see the riders with true enduro experience were at the sharp end of
proceedings. As the race neared its conclusion and with the overall series
standings going to this last race, Stuart Waterhouse could only wait after
taking a truly awesome win. After trailing the leader by over one minute, Luke
Copestake used his fitness to grind out a secure second place and in doing so
took the overall championship title. His pit board read 2011 Champ! Andy Myers
held onto third place despite his KTM overheating, Paul Sykes had his best
result this year with a fine fourth, followed home by Andy Pulfrey and
Mansfield Motorcycles Shane Marriott in sixth.
The Over50 class battle proved to be one of the tightest of the day. Mark
Wardingley took his Gas Gas to a fantastic start taking the holeshot. Title
rivals Steve Burton and Chris Gregory had steady starts. Local heating
engineer Steve Shaw used his trials background to great effect and in doing so
earned himself third place. Second on the day went to Steve Burton who has
been off weather recently, taking his Gas Gas to a fine runner up spot. Winner
on the day was Mark Wardingley who finished just over a minute up on the
field, taking home his trophy and a bottle of cava for his efforts.
Clubman class honours on the day went to Andrew Noakley. Andy on his return
to race pace fitness has found a new motivation and is clearly enjoying his
riding again. Richard Cookland took a well deserved second podium place just
ahead of rideoffroaduk regular James Reeve. Title contender Chris Hughes had
an average day by his own standards coming home in fourth place on his 250
four banger Suzuki.
Luke
Copestake (above) and Stuart Waterhouse (right) were locked in a race long
battle, neither of them refusing to let up, and with the pair fighting for the
overall Championship honours both riders' support crews were urging them on
lap after lap. Eventually Luke managed to gap Stuart and with 30 minutes to go
he was able to use his fitness to great effect and pull a sizeable lead.
Stuart crossed the line tired but very happy with a strong second place. The
surprise of the Sportsman class was Joe Webster taking his first podium
result, proving that small capacity four strokes are easy to ride around the
Butts Quarry track. Marc Mathison had his best result to date with a fine
fourth place on his 125 Husky. Vinny Mullan netted a great fifth place with
Nick Sims fighting back from a poor start to take sixth place points.
to Mark Godfrey who had to pit for a wheel change costing him the win. Third
place and rounding out the podium was Mick Rayson, Mark Wood and Simon Nutter
finished fourth and fifth respectively.
After
a short delay to the scheduled 10am start time the morning Sportsman, Ladies
and Over50 riders were keen to get moving and open the course laid on by the
ride crew. With some subtle changes to the usual enjoyable Lee Dell course,
first around on the first lap was Nick Sims after a superb start. He was
followed by the chasing pack which included Andy Myers and all the usual
sportsman top runners keen to make this final ACUe round count towards the
overall championship. With most of the course holding up very well despite the
wet weather not easing off, riders kept circulating at an impressive rate. It
was clear to see that the wet weather enduro riders with experience were
moving forward as the event reached the halfway point. Michael Mundy was
holding a strong and safe 3rd place, until a small crash left the Hacking
Kawasaki man having to slow his pace, running without a front brake when his
hand guard damaged the brake hose. Shane Marriott, Rob Shuttleworth and fast
starting Paul Sykes were locked in a battle for top ten positions, all three
riders showing great wet weather riding skills.
After
the usual break for lunch and track repairs it was the turn of the Expert,
Over40 and Clubman riders to battle it out over the Lancashire Hills. Holeshot
hero Harry Hillas started well, he was followed into the rock garden Section
by Hacking Kawasaki's Biff Smith and local enduro ace Damian Butler.
Championship leader Scott Austin had a nightmare start when his KTM chain
snapped on the start line. As the Expert field left the start Scott had to
return to the paddock to fit a new chain before starting the event. First
around lap one was Smith closely followed by Hillas, and Damian Butler out on
a very special KTM125 for this event only. Hillas took the lead on lap two and
opened up a two minute lead. Towards the end of the 2 hour mark, Hillas's lead
got smaller as Biff Smith hunted him down. When Hillas pitted for fuel on the
last lap Smith took the lead and held on for a well deserved win. Hillas held
on to second place in the now difficult conditions. Damian Butler rounded out
the podium after an emotional day riding his best mates KTM 125 as a mark of
respect. Well Done Damo, Big Respect.
At the finish flag Lancastrian Matt Solan took his maiden rideoffroaduk win
after an average start. Matt's determined approach to racing has helped him
develop into a tidy Enduro XC rider. Luke Copestake over came an average start
to grind out a firm result by overtaking Geordie Smith on the very last lap to
take second spot. In doing so Luke takes the lead in the overall standings
after the unfortunate Stuart Waterhouse had to retire with a rear puncture
with less than 45 minutes to go. Geordie Smith earned a fine third place with
Nick Sims taking fourth. Chris Vines had his best result to date with an
eighth place, he was just pipped to the flag by Plasterer Paul Sykes who
suffered in the early stages with arm pump.
With
another top class Expert, Over40 and Clubman line up patiently waiting for the
off, the rider briefing was presented to riders underlining the importance of
marshals guidance and safety during the event. As the flag dropped Josh
Bendell got the drop on the Expert field and launched his new XC KTM into the
lead. New XC convert and favourite for the win Jordon Rose got his 450
Kawasaki off to a good start in third. Scott Austin, Gav Houson, Harry Hillas
and Ryan Staveley, out on his new 250 Husaberg, all made good starts.
The
super competitive clubman class was always going to be tight at the top of the
field. On his return to competitive riding Andy Noakley grabbed the holeshot
and led the field around lap one. James Reeve, Liam Ward and Lee Hattersley
all made good starts and set their intentions straight from the word go.
The first event of the day catering for Sportsman/Hobby, Ladies and Over50
vets was underway at 10am. Stamping his authority on the race from the very
first lap was Luke Copestake on his 300 Sherco, he was closely followed by the
hunting pack with the usual regular sportsman challengers in hot pursuit. The
low north camp track is one of the more technical venues used in the
championship, this showed as riders with enduro experience fought out the top
places. Lancastrian Matt Solan had a poor start, after ditching his goggles
the new to XC racing lad put in some impressive lap times to take third place.
Runner up was Nick Sims on his KTM, Nick was beaten to the flag in convincing
style by his pal Luke Copestake. This is Luke's second win at Harwood Dale
proving these conditions really suit him well.
First
back into lap scoring from the 12 minute lap was Lee Sampson, Lee was being
hounded by the sound of a four stroke, Jordon Rose is using this and the next
rideoffroaduk Championship race as training for his upcoming GNCC US debut in
October. Jordon was clearly in the mood for some XC action. The next wave of
riders saw Tom Healey, Championship leader Scott Austin, Josh Bendall and all
action Harry Hillas (left) all making good starts. In the first hour and a
half Jordon Rose gave everyone a lesson in smooth controlled riding, pulling a
lead of over one and a half minutes, despite having to pit for fuel twice in
the race due to a small MX tank.
Jordon
checked the gap every lap through lap scoring and controlled the race from the
front. With only 35 minutes to go Scott Austin and Josh Bendall went out on
the same lap in separate incidents. Scott suffered a puncture and Josh had
crashed injuring his thumb. This paved the way for early leader Lee Sampson to
cruise to a final podium place keeping his Championship hopes very much alive
and kicking. Harry Hillas proved his never say die attitude works well,
earning a fantastic runner up spot. In fact Hillas would have been a sure
winner but for the superb performance from Jordon Rose and Healey's post race
exclusion.
Late
entry Mark Godfrey lit up the Over40 class line up, despite not having ridden
for over a year due to injury, it was great to see Mark back on the kind of
form which won him the 2009 Championship. Mick Rayson had a good day showing
that consistent lap times are the key to the end result. Simon Nutter netted
himself a fine final podium place, he also added to his Championship points
ahead of round six in just over a week's time. TGOR head man Martin Field
dragged his 250 Suzuki out for a ride and thoroughly enjoyed his day. Despite
sitting out the last lap in the pits on "common sense grounds"
Martin later admitted that he leaves the racing to his Son Dan in the Expert
class.
h 2011. Once again great work from all the hard
working track marshals, in particular Stuart, Neil and event medics for
dealing with an injured rider on the last lap of the race. Get well soon Dave.
Fast
Starting Paul Sykes led the field around the first lap. In hot pursuit were
Matt Solan, Tom Leonard and Mansfield Motorcycles Shane Marriott. The early
morning shower meant that riders were finding more grip than expected in the
sweeping grassy turns. The over 50 class riders were next to pass through lap
scoring at the end of lap one, Mark Wardingley desperate for his maiden
rideoffroaduk win made the perfect start ahead of the chasing pack. The ladies
class rivalry was looking as competitive as ever, unusually Helen Lang made
the event work very well for herself, despite some pretty quick open going,
Helen made her trials machine work well through the technical sections to gain
a slight advantage over the super cool Jade Gordon. Emily Davy made the long
journey worthwhile taking third place overall. Anita Gordon was the fourth
lady home on her return to full fitness following a shoulder injury &
illness. Only seven points separate the top three ladies so it all goes down
to the final round in September.
The
Over 50 class was won by a more than happy Mark Wardingley on his Gas Gas,
well done mate. Second place went to the super consistent Steve Burton with
his riding buddy Chris Gregory just pipping Alan Flint for the final trophy.
with
43 seconds to run having had a puncture. Only metres later the tyre fell off
the wheel rim ending his sure winning day. Chris 'Pingu' Hughes showed awesome
pace in the last hour overhauling all the top clubman to take victory on his
250f Yamaha. James Reeve netted second spot and Neil Marshall just pipped
Danny Clarke for the final podium place.
A
big thanks to all our loyal marshals and helpers, you make these events happen
to a high standard, well done. A big pat on the back for all riders who
behaved in a very professional manner, following Braybrook's instructions and
notes to follow the marked course at this new venue was the key to its
success. This venue will only be used on two occasions per year due to its
location and land management procedures.
As
the event neared half distance riders pitted for fuel and much needed
fluids. Championship contender Luke Copestake had a huge off and after
touring for four laps decided to retire in too much pain to continue.
Taking the lead was local lad Ryan Newbury in his CR125, he was closely
followed by Joe wheeler, Tom Leonard, Alex Clegg and old hand Pete
Middleton all pressing on. As the two hour event cut off approached Mark
Reville was charging through the field taking places on each of the last
3 laps. At the flag it was a strong fought victory win for the old lad
Pete Middleton, second went to Joe Wheeler and tiring towards the end
was Ryan Newbury rounding out the podium with a very credible third
place.
The
Over50 class was won by Steve Burton on his immaculately prepared Gas
Gas, his close friend Chris Gregory took runner up spot and rounding out
the podium keeping the series standings close was Yorkshire man Mark
Wardingley.
In
the Expert class the proceedings were dominated by Scott Austin who
overcame a shocking start to finish one lap up on the entire field. With
the likes of Brewster and Sampson opting to drop this round, this event
may prove decisive when the end of year presentation takes place. Second
place went to the super consistent Lee Taylor. Finishing on the final
podium step was holeshot king Damian Butler, damo added to his points
tally proving regular scoring is the key to overall championship
positions. The unluckiest man of the day was Chris Health, Chris was up
to second place on the final lap when his hybrid Honda ran dry of fuel
meaning a push over the line dropped him to fourth place. Chay Granby
earned a great fifth place and Lee Smith took sixth.
In the highly competitive Clubman class and with no fewer than
sixteen riders all finishing on the same lap, the on track action was
electric. Andrew Hornshaw, newcomer Josh Law and Oliver Cooper were
separated by literally seconds throughout the whole two and a half
hours.
Rideoffroaduk
regular Pete Middleton led the sportsman around Lap one setting an
awesome pace, he was followed by Alex Clegg, Shane Marriot, and Luke
Copestake out on his new 300 Sherco for the first time ever. As the
event progressed riders switched places during pit stops and went bar to
bar on the course in some healthy competition. The addition of an
updated timing system saw riders using the time remaining screen to good
use during scheduled pit stops or to simply pace themselves during the
event. At the finish flag Sam Warren took the win, although Sam is not
eligible for series points as he just used the event for off road
training. Second on the day was Mike Slater, Mike will take away first
place Series points and he goes into round two with the advantage. Pete
Middleton used his usual smooth consistency to net the final podium
place on the day. With around 10 riders queuing up behind the podium
finishers this XC series is shaping up to provide some red hot
competition in the most heavily supported classes. With only 3 riders
failing to finish due to mechanical issues, the rideoffroaduk team is
more than pleased with the suitability of the courses chosen for the ACU
Events XC Series for 2010.
The
Over50 Vets were also on track for the full two hours, this was won by
Steve Burton clocking up 14 laps on his super trick Gas Gas, his close
friend Chris Gregory chased him home in second place despite opting to
use a bike he has never ridden before, the rideoffroaduk Sherco
Demonstrator 300 for this event, the ride team stepped in to help due to
his usual bike going bang in the week. Rounding out the podium was Mark
Wardingley who missed out on the extra lap by a mere 53 seconds. As the
Over50 class gains in popularity roll on the next event where battle can
resume.
Following
the morning class presentation and a brief lunch break for marshals,
shortly after 1pm the Expert Over40 and Clubman class riders were on
track. Right from the off KB Racings Lewis Belfield was head and
shoulders above all other expert riders. Lewis who had training from
Wayne Braybrook over 5 years ago has really matured as a rider and can
now be classed as a great prospect for the future. Taking runner up spot
on the day was Tom Healey on his Rideoffroaduk sponsored KTM. Lincoln
Brewster had an off day struggling to get his machine set up right for
the conditions. Lincoln had to settle for third place through gritted
teeth. Lincoln vowed to get his number one plate back so watch out boys
the terminator will return.
Finally
the Over 40 class was won convincingly by Peter Archer, Peter who is a
newcomer to the rideoffroaduk events dealt with all other vets in fine
style to take the win. Second spot was Stuart Cryer on twenty laps
completed, and regular runner Shaun Woffinden held off stiff completion
to take third. The over 40 class was very well supported and it was
great to see fantastic competition through the field.
With a short break for lunch allowing the assistant clerk of the
course to add in some more challenging sections for the main event, a
few minutes after 1pm the main event was ready to go. With a full on
quality line up of Expert riders featuring the likes of Lincoln
Brewster, Harry Hillas, Scott Austin and Lee Sampson, not to mention
another half dozen possible top 6 runners this battle was impossible to
call.
Brewster made one of his trademark lightning starts on the little 200
gasser, through lap scoring on lap one Lee Sampson was on the back wheel
of Lincoln, with most on lookers expecting Brewster to pull away and
clear off as he has done in recent weeks, Sampson had other ideas. Tom
Healey was finding it hard to get in the zone, after 2 weeks off his
bike he was not looking his usual self. Harry Hillas and Scott Austin
were in a scrap for third which saw Hillas pit before Austin, Scott out
on the new 300 Sherco for the first time having had only 30 minutes on
the bike before, was showing just how versatile this 300 four banger is.
With Sampson and Brewster swapping places for the whole two and a
half hours, eventually Sampson stamped his authority to take his first
ever Enduro Hare & Hounds Victory. Lee who has enlisted the advice
of Wayne Braybrook for his new found passion is using the advice to
great effect. Adding to Brewster's bad day at the office, he also took a
heavy crash on the penultimate lap which would have seen most riders
retire; Lincs who is old school, simply got up and ground out another
podium finish, good on you Lincoln. The final podium place was filled by
the hard riding Scott Austin, proving Shercos reliability on the new 300
four stroke machine. The Super competitive Clubman class saw Local ace
Matty Bell take a resounding win. Matty blew the entire class apart,
finishing a lap up on everyone due to his consistent lap times and local
support crew urging him on. Taking runner up spot on his return to full
fitness after a broken wrist was Chris "Pingu" Hughes on the
four stroke Yamaha, rounding out the podium and setting his championship
attack in motion was Luke Williams. Lurking in the wings are around 8
possible podium finishers, so when round two hits Low North Park on
April 25th the fireworks will be going off.
In the Expert class Jordon Rose to many onlooker's amazement had
taken the standard CRF250X Enduro bike, albeit massively underpowered
for a top MX rider, into a commanding lead. As Jordon was sucked in by
the big bikes on the fast straights his out and out pace in the woodland
sections was simply awesome. Scott Austin's departure due to a heavy
fall less than an hour in meant that the Stylish Luke Meredith could
secure second on the day and the overall expert class Championship on
his borrowed 300 Gas Gas. A fine and well earned final podium place was
taken by Oliver Hart who has recently upgraded himself to the Expert
class in preparation for the 2010 season. Oliver has signed up for a
training program with Wayne Braybrook to prepare himself through the
winter months for a serious attack on next years Expert Championship.
Watch out boys this lad is one tough cookie.
At
the finish flag Matty Bell earned himself his home round victory much to
the satisfaction of his friends and supporters. John Butterworth took a
very well deserved second place and Stuart Waterhouse rounded out the
final step on the podium.
Shortly
after 1PM Wayne Braybrook gave the signal to warm engines. When the
start flag was dropped fast starting MX convert and Expert class leader
Luke Meredith took his 250 Gas Gas into the first woodland section ahead
of his rivals. As the riders went out of sight around the perimeter of
the Harwood Dale venue it was over ten minutes before they came back
into sight on the MX track section. Meredith was still leading but the
familiar 4 stroke sound was not too far behind, Scott Austin (right) was
in no mood for anything less than a win. Despite leading last time out
at Harwood Dale Austin's efforts came to an abrupt end when mechanical
gremlins hit the 450 KTM. Through lap scoring first was Scott Austin;
Meredith had caught his front wheel on a large rock which had pitched
him into the undergrowth loosing him over 2 minutes. Another
rideoffroaduk newcomer Josh Bendall was showing his XC capabilities
around the track by pressing on at a good rate, looking stylish and
smooth coupled with lots of aggression and desire this young man is one
to watch for future events.
As usual at most XC events Tom Healey (above) and Oliver Hart were
favorites to battle for top honors. With Steve Watson, Lee Smith and
Mark Harrison all pushing for top places on the day anything could have
happened in this class. It was also nice to see Grant Marsden back in
action after his accident at Round 4 back in May. As the weeks and
months go by Grant should be back up to full fitness which will see him
battling for the top places once again. John Bradford was out enjoying
being back on an Enduro bike after trying his hand at trials for some
time. CCM Flat track racer Richard May made the long trip from Cheshire
to have a run out on his old CRF250, despite being a bit ring rusty May
still put in very consistent lap times.
Shortly before 1.30 the signal was given to warm engines for the main
event, taking the holeshot from the dead engine start was Jason Hope
from Championship leader Luke Meredith. With Over40 run away leader Mark
Godfrey hoping for his first overall win, and with local trials ace Lee
Sampson now looking to move up the rankings in enduro Hare & Hounds
events, the battle was underway. Surprisingly leading onto the
plantation at the end of lap one was Lee Sampson, closely followed by
Mark Godfrey, Dave Salkeld and Damian Butler, but no sign of Meredith or
Hope. As the top riders moved around the second lap, when Meredith
appeared he signaled to his crew that he had a derailed chain and had to
free off the jammed chain before getting moving again. Jason Hope had a
mechanical problem resulting in him hitting a tree and sustaining a
shoulder injury, forcing him to retire on lap one.
In the Over40 class the youthful Mark Godfrey not only took the class
win but he also was overall winner on the day. Mark has many years
enduro experience and is now in his own words "riding better than
he has ever done before". Experience shows in wet conditions and
this controlled ride impressed all who saw it. Local Heating engineer
and FOK woodland management officer Steve Shaw (right) earned a fantastic runner
up spot by simply keeping going at a good pace and not stopping for fuel
or goggles. Colin Appleyard Car Sales manager Nigel Smith took the final
podium place on his RMZ450. Nigel made great use of the four stroke
power to secure third place. 
Shortly
after 10AM the Sportsman event got underway, Danny Clarke led the usual
top runners into the first of 6 woodland sections on the course, after his
first podium place at Butt's Quarry 2 weeks before Danny who seems to have
more confidence than ever at the moment stamped his authority on this
event right from the off. William Hillas took his usual steady start and
was holding seventh on the first lap, the likes of Arthur Wilkinson Joe
Pearce and Steve Burton were all in the mix. Stuart Simpson in only his
fifth ever event was holding a top six place until an excursion on one of
the up hill sections dropped him just outside the top ten. With a good mix
of Woodland sections, stream crossings and use of the old MX track, riders
had the chance to perform in all kinds of changing terrain. At the 2 hour
mark the cheqered flag came out and Danny Clarke took his first ever
series victory much to the delight of his pit crew and supporters. Pete
Middleton took a very well deserved runner up spot back to Derbyshire,
Arthur Wilkinson held on to the final podium place by a mere 46 seconds
from Joe Pearce. The Sportsman podium places were treated to trophies and
product prizes kindly donated by our sports drink sponsor SIS (Science in
Sport).
After
the Sportsman presentation the afternoon event featuring Expert, Over40
and Clubman class riders were eager to get on track. After the pre event
briefing, Wayne Braybrook flagged the Over40 and Expert riders away. Mark
Godfrey and David Salkeld were the fast starters who gained the advantage
going into the first woodland section. As the riders filtered round the
first lap, the pair of Godfrey and Salkeld proved how competitive the Vets
class is by showing the Experts a clean pair of heels. The first Expert to
appear was Tim Pattinson on his KTM, Tim who knows just how to be
effective in Hare & Hounds events looked ready to keep a good pace for
the full two and a half hour duration.
As
the race progressed it was Oliver Hart and Healey who were at the sharp
end of proceedings, Guy Corner, James Roe and local trials ace Mark
Harrison were all doing consistent laps and battling for the top places.
With Hart and Healey only 15 seconds apart the pit stops for fuel were to
be critical. Oliver stopped first and had problems with his fast filler,
having to take the nozzle out and start again seemed to take up precious
seconds.
Shortly
after 10am the Sportsman and ladies class event was underway, with lots of
new faces in this class it was difficult to see who if anyone could cause
an upset to the usual top runners in the Championship to date. At the end
of lap one it was Lancastrian Matty Bell with a 16 second lead over the
chasing pack, hot on his heels were Danny Clarke aboard his 250 Honda with
Arthur Wilkinson William Hillas and Nick Owen close behind. As most riders
used the slower sections of the lap to have a drink or relax, it was plain
to see that the riders at the sharp end of this popular class were very
intent on stamping their authority on this new venue. With the super fast
live lap scoring system meaning riders don't have to stop to record a lap
the pace hotted up. With William Hillas hitting the front at mid race
distance, and with Matty Bell having to retire with a damaged chain guide,
Hillas Jnr then showed everyone that he has his elder brothers full on
attacking style, which he is now starting to develop into his own riding.
Towards the end of the event Hillas was challenged by the hard charging
Arthur Wilkinson aboard his new Six days Gas Gas 300, going into the final
laps Wilkinson was less than 19 seconds behind the leader, with the Hillas
pit crew pacing up and down keeping an eye on the lap times, nerves were
on edge as the clock ticked towards the two hour race duration.
After
the lunch break the Expert, Over40 and Clubman class riders lined up ready
to do battle, with the Expert class series points now getting close it was
the usual Hard Charging Lincoln Brewster who would be the man to beat.
Luke Meredith (above) had a point to prove after his disappointing result
at Round 3 and the battle ensued. At the finish Brewster planned his last
laps to perfection threading through to lap riders and take the overall
win despite being pushed by Meredith by a gap of less than 6 seconds at
one point. Luke was happy to be back on form and take second place to
extend his Championship points lead. Harry Hillas (top) rounded out the
final podium place in his preparations for the upcoming Erzberg Rodeo race
in Austria. Jason Hope netted forth place with Lewis Belfield (left)
struggling to find his pace in the dry conditions.
The
Over 40 Class battle went once again to the super fast Mark Godfrey,
Second was Hare & Hounds regular Ian Shannon with long standing Colin
Appleyard employee Nigel Smith (right) taking his Suzuki to the final
podium place.
With the rideoffroaduk course crew waiting in the woodland for the
end of the sportsman event, two further new loops were added for the
main event where the best experts, Clubman and over 40 riders were to do
battle.
The highly competitive Clubman class was the largest of the main
race. With many riders all up for the top honors, all of them on totally
different capacity bikes this made a superb class to follow. After the
two and a half hour distance rideoffroaduk regular Thomas Healey (left) took a
well deserved win, Tom had to work hard for this win and his consistency
allowed him to gain the vital extra lap just before the full distance
had elapsed. Oliver Hart earned himself second place and now leads the
2009 Championship chase. Rounding out the final podium place was Adam
O'Neil. Clubman standings are now Hart, Healey and O'Neil, so keep an
eye on this class at round 3 as the battle intensifies.
Expert 1 Matt Moffat 17 Laps 02:36:42:440 2 Luke Meredith 17 Laps
02:36:44:052 3 Rob Reece 17 Laps 02:36:59:613 4 Harry Hillas 16 Laps
02:33:46:166 5 Tom Hick 16 Laps 02:35:13:452 6 Damian Butler 16 Laps
02:36:23:913
For
the first time the rideoffroaduk crew introduced a trials class into
our event, this threw up a few surprises with the trials boys
clocking up some impressive lap times. Local rider Rob Bunting took
first place on his Beta notching up 22 laps, second place went to
John Steeples on 21 laps, rounding out the podium was Martin
Stanistreet with Simon Foulke taking a well deserved forth in class.