A flying visit

I didn't compete in the event this year, but somehow couldn't stay away... Gazza talked me into scumming out from Hornsby (107km return) to check out the race - initially wasn't keen but the few minutes there made it worthwhile. The scum wasn't all that bad either - but given the amount of flood debris on the road it was clear things at Del Rio were not going to be pretty.

As we rode the entry section in we saw Dylan about to head up the firetrail climb at the road turning. From a way off I thought it was him, but couldn't tell as there wasn't much orange left showing on his Yeti Shouted greetings as we passed but not sure this even registered as he grunted back. Poor bugger must be a bit tired I commented.

We got a lot of 'get an MTB' from riders on that section. Meh... little did they know

Went to event central and said hello to the smiley helpers, but it seemed a bit quiet there so went to find Salty HQ.

Arrived at Salty HQ to find Whisperer and Lord Carlgroover in a jubilant mood - first in their class and high up overall. They'd done their stints leaving the other two to finish up.

Watched Steve01 get off the wind trainer and slip on the stairs carrying a Mojo on his shoulder. Luckily he caught the fall and the seat of his bike stuck on his backpack so it didn't hit the ground. He stood there with the bike swinging magically in mid-air... priceless!

Saw Dylan come back from his lap looking pretty tired. He got straight on the wind trainer to keep warm while having a chat. What a champ - great to see riders who put in for the team! Mind you, he was moaning about not wanting to go all out with a last lap charge so perhaps I shouldn't be too complimentary!

Anyhow, so it was clear that despite the conditions yet again, things were all good. Chatted to a couple of the contestants on the road section out. One guy in a duo seemed happy as Larry and said he'd get another 2 laps in with a grin. Another rider we spoke to was on a SS 29er Iron Horse with Lefty (don't see many of them!) and also looking pretty happy. With about an hour left reckon most people would have been though - they'd be done before us as we headed for a wet and windy ride back to Hornsby (which wasn't as bad as that makes it sound).

Back in for it next year then? Hmmmmm...