KAKATAK 3

We changed the format for the first event in 2003, from a marked route which the individual followed, to an orienteering format with checkpoints, in which it was up to the participant to work out the best route for them and then  trying to collect the most points possible within the allocated time..

Simon set the riders off at 10am & the game was on. Simon hightailed it up to his checkpoint  on St Martha's hill in anticipation of the first riders. However, we think the fastest visit to a checkpoint was 10.20am at Dukes Warren.  Conditions were good & the threatened rain never materialized.

While Simon made frantic phone calls begging for food & whinging about the cold on top of St martha's, Rod & Harold the marshalls at Newlands Corner enjoyed burger & chips & hot coffee. Meanwhile, the competition was hotting up, with Jon Webb travelling at warp factor 9, there was a touch of the hare & tortoise with George Hill & Toby Ward staying in contention by making fewer  mistakes. But even with three punctures Jon managed to visit all 10 check points & return to the shop in 3hrs 8mins (We didn't think it possible) George & Toby were 20mins behind. Astonishingly 6 riders managed to visit all ten check points so congratulations to them.

A good proportion of the riders visited 8 checkpoints & most returned within the allocated time. And we'd like to make a small mention of Kate & friend  (pictured below) who finished with minus 80pts but were brave enough to return & smile for the camera.

Thanks to all those who took part & everyone who helped out. I will post the results asap.

RESULTS

 LINKS>www.justridingalong.com   www.diaryofamountainbiker.co.uk www.mountainbikingsurreyhills.com for some more reports of the day.

Kakatak