What a great day out, lots of stands lots of action, lots of MTB stars, definitely an event not to miss and right on our doorstep. I was in my element when we went to the Commencal stand, only to see Rachel and Gee Atherton just lounging about before the races and talking to fans. I then looked to my right and saw Steve Peat ( UCI Downhill World Champion) on the Santa Cruz stand next door. Watched both Gee and Steve in the Dual Slalom event as well as many other big names. Sadly Dan Atherton was not there as he is in a spinal unit after breaking his neck in a fall (c1&2 fracture) but they were positive about his recovery.
Later we talked to Adrian Carter of Pace, Helen, Kharl and I tested some Whyte bikes on a demo loop - which was great fun, on returning my bike I was talking to a young lad who had tested nearly 10 bikes and was having great fun. Later I caught sight of Nick Craig(Scott), and Doddy from MB UK. I have been to a few bike shows before and they have just been stand after stand, very interesting but here we were in amongst the action track side and close to the riders..
There was also a lot for the roadies - we bumped into James of the RCC road section who had just finished the 106m sportive and seemed to have really enjoyed himself despite the heat which made refuelling at every station essential. He was even thinking of coming back the next day with his kids!
Looking at the program after the event I could not believe how much we missed - we did not manage to catch the dirt jumps or the Animal Freeride tour or see any of the interviews, watch a tech demo or enter an event. Also I noticed that the dual slalom course was open to anybody on the Sunday, I am sure one or two in the club would be mad enough to have a go!
In the evening as I walked back to the car, passing people from the campsite to go to the Big Top to listen to the bands or watch films, I decided that one day did not do this event justice - I will be back next year for the whole weekend. It would make a great club weekend away, what do you think?
Mike T
