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24tom
@The_Seldom_Killer
Northallerton, it's a flat course save for bashing up and down a couple of banks. In response to the growing popularity of the sport the YCCA and organisers decided to increase the length of it by pushing the number of switchback turns into double figures. All of this on ground that has remained firm despite a couple of spells rain recently meant a course that was fast for everyone.
Everyone except me that is. Oh and a chubby guy and a first timer. I did toy with switching cogs from 20 to 19 but was glad I didn't I was greatful for it at the end when I nearly stalled on the banks and throughout the race coming out of the tight turns.
A faint shred of dignity remains for managing to come Not Last but clearly a lot of improvement to be made in the coming season. Alas as fairweather riders drop out, I suspect the red lantern will stalk me mercilessly all the way to January.
First improvement will come ahead of Wakefield next week as I ditch the Spesh Houffalize tyres. Fine for cracking around dry trails but with what little moisture there was in the ground meant they clagged up into slippy mud discs. I died a little death on every tight corner that meant I never stood a chance of hauling up to the guy in front.
That all sounds a bit miserable but I did enjoy myself. Managed to catch a few wheels in the back end of the race and wasn't reduced to utter grovelling before the hour was up.