Words, photos and video: Descent World

What a difference a year makes – this time last year Britain was in a mini heat wave and the course at Ae had dust on it in sections. Fast forward to 2017 and things could not be more different yet despite the weather and some other minor problems doing their best to upset 250+ racers, one thing remained a constant – big smiles, a great course and a field well chuffed to be out pushing on between the tapes.

The SDA once again have to be applauded, this tireless bunch – all volunteers, and one of the few volunteer race organising groups left at that – know how to make a great track work year after year.

Fraser Mccubbing and crew put in some wonderful alterations to the track, giving the seasoned riders a few challenging sections when tackled at pace and still allowing the newcomers to the sport, of which there were more than a few here, a chance to race DH without being petrified.

As ever there were many topics of conversation flowing through the pits – not least the FC handing out parking fines with a ruthless efficiency that was almost admirable in its application. All those extra £25’s aside this was a track where grip was in abundance – if you were prepared to push those tyres to an edge where they suddenly come alive. A combinations of loose rock, some tricky ruts and sniper roots made tyre choice a struggle, with many of the fast boys reverting to dry tyres come race run such was their faith in finding grip down this famous track. 

Come race day there were of course winners and losers in all categories amongst the changing conditions but the big winner was Adam Brayton, ending Ben Cathro’s run of 6 straight SDA race wins with 0.58 seconds to spare. Becci Skelton took out the womens by similarly tight margin of 0.51 seconds over Elena Melton.

Full race results can be found on Roots and Rain. 

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