BUCS MTB Champs

Hi folks, just a quick update....

It was the BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) MTB champs this weekend (20th/21st) at Ae in Scotland. I travelled up from Manchester with my fellow students on Thursday evening ready for the downhill practice on Friday ahead of the race on Saturday; the XC race was to be on the Sunday. Thankfully the weather was kind to us and I spent Friday and Saturday twiddling around the XC course and supporting/laughing at the downhillers! The XC course was not what I had expected from a 7Staines centre; it essentially consisted of the blue route (flat fire road followed by one major fire road climb) and then the first part of the red route but ridden backwards (not possible at speed due to the tight nature of the switch backs); it didn't suit my strengths at all! Still, I looked forward to racing and was of a positive frame of mind.
Unfortunatley this didn't last for long once the gun went on Sunday afternoon. I am obviously not hardy enough to race after three nights camping in the cold - my back, which I have suffered with a lot in the past, was having none of it and decided to cramp up and not let go! My race was therefore somewhat hampered and I had to settle with eighth, a position which I am disappointed with. Having said that however, the women's championship race was a top class field and it was great to see so many girls riding, even if they were wooping my bottom! Moreover, I now have an XC race under my belt this year and a hunger for racing so I am very much looking forward to the first of the national series this weekend at Sherwood Pines. I am certain my preparation will be somewhat more comfortable so fingers crossed for a better result!
TTFN :)