A recent addition to the local cycling scene is the “mini downhill” mountain bike series being held over this winter in the Forest Of Dean. Sunday 31st January was the second round and was supported by some 300 riders ranging from 10 year old “rippers” to “veterans” in the over 40s category.

Cheltenham & County Cycling Club were represented by a four riders with varying experience in Downhill riding and racing. Rachel Vicary was fresh from her win in December at the Kona Mashup event in Wales and she was looking to race Downhill for the first time. Roger Smith, Richard Dade and Charlie Williams were in the Masters category (30-39), with Roger racing for the first time and Rich for the second. Charlie a seasoned racer though.

These events have shorter track lengths than most Downhill races and try to encourage riders to compete who have little or no experience of racing. Entrants are not required to hold a race license to participate. However, there are no shortages of top local and national riders that attend.

The day started icy cold with a very hard but grippy track to practice on until the race runs started at 11am. First down the course were the female category, followed by the junior categories, and then the seniors, masters, veterans and finally the elites. The second runs commenced just after 1pm with each category setting off in order of times from the first runs, slowest first, fastest last. As the day went on the track gradually became slicker as some of the frosty surfaces turned to mud. The large number of spectators who turned out to watch the racing were rewarded with some stunning displays of mountain bike riding on the edge and at its limts.

Rachel achieved a superb 2nd place after having put in a great time on her first ever Downhill race run. She was presented with a trophy and prize following the event. Commenting on her excellent result Vicary, who is also supported by Powell Fitness, said:-
“This was my first timed race where you only get two chances to put in a good run and the pressure was certainly on. My first run felt fast and I knew from the times that I had a good chance of podium. The adrenalin was flowing and my bike was handling beautifully over the roots and rocky bits which really helped my confidence. Unfortunately I crashed on the second run which was gutting but I had done enough first time round to secure 2nd place which, for my first proper downhill race, was an amazing feeling. I’m now really looking forward to the next race at the end of February - and of course, improving on my times…”

In the Masters, experienced racer Charlie Williams came in a very creditable 6th overall out of 42 in the class. Richard and Roger finished 21st and 30th respectively. After having finally stepped up and taken the plunge into racing Roger said:-
“It’s only when you push off at the start knowing it is you against the clock that you really know the meaning of total focus. It is such a great buzz and all the racers there are a really great bunch. Egos appear to get left behind and we just got on and had a good time. I just wanted to see if I enjoyed the experience of racing and I sure did that. And it was extra special having fellow club mates doing the same.”