Schwalbe British 4X Series 2014 – Round 7 – Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
This Sunday, 21st September, sees the Schwalbe British 4X Series travelling to Leamington Spa in Warwickshire for the final round of the 2014 Series. The track in Leamington will provide a fantastic end to what has been an awesome 2014 Series. Local Elite rider Nathan Parsons has been working nonstop over the last few weeks to ensure that the track is in prime condition and ready for the riders to do battle as they fight for the overall series positions.
With a few track changes, some new jumps and an extended pro line, the stage is set for the riders to do battle this weekend. The track is also perfect for spectators to see every inch of the track from almost anywhere on the hill side.
WHO TO WATCH
Women’s 4X racing has gone through quite a transition over the course of the 2014 season. Cara Murray began her 2014 campaign with back to back wins at the opening rounds. Then mid season, Liz Fowler got her first win and she has been unbeaten since – also taking the 4X National Championships crown. Whilst these two are battling, Heather Kay will be looking to end the year with a win after some fantastic performances in the 4X ProTour. Megan Wherry and Tyde D’Souza will also be looking to upset the form books and challenge for the win. There is also another rider who will be racing this weekend. The 2014 4X World Champion, Katy Curd will be racing in the rainbow stripes and without a doubt will be looking to claim a win on home soil. Elite women have had upwards of 15 riders at every race in 2014. Will Leamington provide the highest numbers to date.
In the men’s, it has been an interesting year. Scott Beaumont took the win at the opening 3 rounds and looked to be storming towards the overall title. However with some other race commitments he missed the double round at Bridgnorth where, Will Evans and Nathan Parsons took the wins and then was beaten into 2nd position by Duncan Ferris in Falmouth. So with plenty of winners in 2014, it is really anyone’s guess who might take the win in Leamington. Beaumont, still recovering from a broken coccyx which was sustained at the final 4X ProTour round in Bulgaria 3 weeks ago is far from 100% fit but without a doubt he will be battling for the win. As just mentioned, Duncan Ferris, Will Evans and Nathan Parsons have been on fire in 2014, taking wins in the series and positioning themselves well in the overall standings. One name we haven’t mentioned though is Lewis Lacey. Lewis has been riding at his best in the 4X ProTour but it just hasn’t gone his way in the British Series. Look for Lewis to be gunning for the win in Leamington. Throw into the mix several elite BMX riders who are scheduled to race and we could be in for some fireworks.
The 2014 Schwalbe British 4X Series has been superb. Loads of new faces, great racing at every race and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that is rarely found at gravity mountain bike races. If you ever thought, I’d like to give 4X a go, but I’m not sure – well the wait is over. Everyone who has ever ridden Leamington loves the place. The track is great for beginners and elite riders and with the track being open all day Saturday, you can get a full weekend of riding and experience in 4X.
With the British Downhill Series and British BMX Series all wrapped up last weekend, this is the chance for downhillers and BMX riders to come and give 4X a go. We guarantee you will have an absolute blast.
INFORMATION
Enter the race here
Address
Leamington Spa 4X Track
Campion Hills, Off Upper Holly Walk, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
Camping
Camping will be available on site and will open on Friday afternoon.
WEEKEND TIMETABLE
Saturday 20th September:
The track is open but you have to pay the riding fee to RLS 4X Club.
Sunday 21st September:
Please note that these times are provisional and the organizers reserve the right to alter them.
- 09.30 – Open Practice
- 10.30 – Gate Practice – Fun, Big Fun, Juvenile, Youth, Master, Veteran, Girls
- 11.00 – Gate Practice – Junior, Senior & Pro Elite
- 11.30 – Lunch Brake
- 12.00 – Racing starts
- Moto 1,2,3
- Runs offs will be used after motos if required (due to 2 or more riders tying on points)
- 1/8 Finals (33 Minimum number of riders required in a class)
- 1/4 Finals (17 Minimum number of riders required in a class)
- Semi Finals (9 Minimum number of riders required in a class)
- Finals
- 4.30pm – Presentations
For Series information, have a look at the website: www.british4x.com
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