A dusty day out!
This was a new venue for me and I'd heard some good things about it, so along with a few mates we headed down to the track. It's a lovely setting for racing this place. The man made lakes with Swans in them are very picturesque, good parking and great viewing for spectators.
I arrived whilst the morning race was still underway so had plenty of time to get changed and organised. The start area is quite a way from the parking so I loaded up the stuff I needed and rode over shortly after the first race had finished.
It wasn't a big field of riders but a good turnout none-the-less. We were only waiting for a short time before the experts were flagged off. After watching them go it was clear the dust was going to be a bit of a problem. My group was fourth away and after my customary crap start I was near the back unable to see anything. I carried on but felt like a mobile chicaine for the other riders! With no idea where the track went or what the terrain was like I had no option to slow down till I could see what was looming up from the dust. From the way some of the riders passed me they were either insane or knew the track very well as they were most definately riding blind. The only respite were the few sections in the trees which I did enjoy, clear of dust I could see and usually caught people up only to let them go once out of the trees.
I carried on like this for about an hour and in reality all I was doing was circulating and getting passed. Up till this point I hadn't passed a single rider. Now I know I'm not the fastest but I usually manage a few overtakes. I pulled over in the trees and had a natter with the power marshal. I forget his name but l aways see him and say hello, and given my poor showing didn't think a stop would make much difference to my finishing position. After about five minutes I carried on and did a couple more laps before refuelling. For some reason I now was starting to pass people? I think the hot weather and dusty conditions put some riders off and they pulled out. Fewer riders meant less dust, I could see and ride at a more normal pace for myself. I was still getting passed but nowhere near as much and was catching and passing quite a few now. I was enjoying it so much more and could appreciate the track better. I settled into a reasonable pace and aimed to just enjoy the ride.
At the end of the event I'd had a good ride round (if not a very good result) and enjoyed what I'd done. It was an interesting loop with an emphasis on good braking and acceleration out of the tight corners. Good practice for me if nothing else as I obviously need it! I reckon I'd go back but maybe when it's been a bit damp or wet as I really did struggle with the dust but that was just a feature of the day and the same for everyone. It was another well run WOR event at another good venue.
Geraint.