21 Apr 08 - The Merida 24Hr MTB Challenge

MTBdirt Kamikaze Bushrangers (No: 93) had a go AND survived!

Our 4 man team consisting of me, Galps (Ian), Waddo, (Mark) and Oldsy (Paul) showed up on Saturday morning more than a little apprehensive about the 24 hours ahead. Actually it was only just morning for Oldsy who arrived 10 minutes before start time which earned him the illustrious “Rider 1” position. Truth be told; he was the only one who had competed in a MTB event before, (several for him in fact) so there was a bit of monkey see, monkey do involved from the rest of us.

When Oldsy returned a 27 minute first lap the rest of our collective thoughts were something like “Oh shit how am I going to keep up with that”.. Unfortunately for Oldsy a strained hamstring saw him out after 5 laps..

What a great course. It was tough going for us newbie’s but what a blast. I didn’t hear a harsh word spoken and I reckon I was most the most appreciated rider on the course because I couldn’t count the number of times I heard “thanks mate” when I made room for approaching / passing riders. I did pass one guy though…… which was great….but he was on his 20th straight lap.

I loved riding in the dark with the new Ayups blazing away and even the rain was fun, (maybe I have masochistic tendencies).

To summarize, we finished with 21 laps, (yeah I know, not that great), no mechanicals, a couple of other bumps and bruises, (I could not shake the stitches during my laps) but our pride remains intact. We didn’t win any prizes but in terms of personal achievement we all did pretty well I reckon. This 43 year old is still hooked on the sport and despite being a bit sore today I plan to keep competing, (wish I discovered this years ago!!!).

Finally thanks to the organisers and my hat is off to all participants, particularly the soloists, the juniors and that guy who ran into transition carrying his bike over his shoulder after two flats, (wish I had a photo of that!). You are incredible athletes.. Truly amazing stuff!

Cheers,

Wellsy