The fifth race in the NEMTB (New England Mountain Bikers) Winter Series was held recently at the Armidale Pine Forest. Thirty riders started the event with clean clothes and bikes, with the track fast and dry. An hour or two later, they ended the race muddy and mostly smiling after heavy rain and even hail caused the track to become muddy and slippery.
In the Open Men’s division over three laps, Peter Hosking rode well early to open up a lead over John Hamilton and Steve Chapman. However, Hamilton and Chapman finished strongly in the muddy conditions to come first and second respectively. Hamilton won by just three seconds to Chapman, with Hosking third. James Harris was riding strongly before he slid off one of the flat bridges. His front wheel is now badly bent after it hit a muddy bank.
In the Open Women’s race, Jo Benham continued her fine return to racing with a great ride over her three laps. Second was Rowena Stockton.
In the Sport section for women, Shireen Brunckhorst won from Lisa Harris and Barb Hosking. Fiona Brunckhorst dominated the Women’s U19 race. This was despite her losing a pedal on her way around. She later found it attached to her shoe.
In the women’s U15 race, Kathryn Hosking won from Emily Wooster and Winona Rumble. Isabella Hosking was riding well in this division until her bike somehow ended up in the creek! Isabella can be commended for retrieving her bike and completing her lap.
In the U19 race, Peter Platts and Ben Brunckhorst finished together, with Edward Harland not far behind.
In the U15 race, Jeremy Halliday won, with Scott McMaster second.
The next race at the Pine Forest is the Attitude at Altitude race. This is the 7th and final leg of the Mid-North Series (GNATPaCK) where races have been held at Grafton, Nambucca, Taree, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey and Armidale. This big race will be held on September 18, with many riders from the coast coming up. Check out all the details on the website www.nemtb.com.au.
