Wales, February, you'd be mad not to expect rain and we were not disappointed.
Sat
The bales arrived ahead of schedule thanks to the efforts of Derek Round, Ian Round and a sick Ian Dawson early that morning. With the course baled, closed to traffic and now almost dry the riders started bombing the hill.
The Lugers, Dirt Surfer and Mountain Board all started at the very top of the hill giving them a long cruising section before the drop off. The Skateboarders and Street Turtle riders started at the "old" start. With the build up of winter grime and damp surface it was soon discovered that the road was gnarlier than first appearances suggested. Great fun was had, with the Lugers going as fast as possible, comparing speeds on their GPS recorders. The Skateboarders did the first few runs on their sliding decks and with the damp greasy surface some great moves were pulled before gaining confidence and cruising, then bombing the hill on their downhill decks. Jason Absalom had the time of his life riding the Street Turtle, achieving a new personal best speed on it.
Saturday evening began in the Holiday Village pub for some great grub and a mini UKGSA meeting to make some decisions on upcoming events and other items. Everyone then moved to one of the cabins where a projector and screen was set up and an evening of Saft and Boneless films were shown. Films included 2005 UKGSA races, Chamrousse and Bukolik freerides with hilarious moments and great riding.
Sun
Saturday was damp, Sunday was a downpour. Most were happy to sand about chatting, talking Skateboard and Luge. A few hardcore riders (2 Luge, 2 Stand-Up, Turtle, Dirt Surfer and Mountain Board) refused to be beaten and hit the hill. Despite the rain it seemed like the grip on the course had improved and Jason Absalom was blasting down the hill on his Luge faster than anyone the previous day. All the winter grime must have been washed away.
By lunch the rain had stopped, but everyone (bar Jason Absalom) was wet, cold and had had enough. So the decision was made to clear up and head for home.
Thanks
Thanks to all the riders, to Saft and Boneless for the films, to Luke for the projector and sheet, thanks to the marshals for standing in the rain and wind and thanks to everyone who helped set out and clear up the bales. Most thanks to Derek Round, Ian Round and Ian Dawson for collecting the bales from their home and returning them despite illness and injuries.
The UKGSA hopes to be organising another Downhill Dragon freeride at Traws this year. Keep your fingers crossed for a hot, dry summer. |
