Four CCCC riders and some of their partners enjoyed a different kind of XC racing at the Bathurst Estate near Cirencester on Valentines Day. On a cold but sunny morning we lined up for a 2 mile run, 10 mile mountain bike and then another 2 mile run - all around a muddy but not very technical course.
Ewen Macgregor and Liz Catchpole, racing as 'Ginger and Nuts' were second relay team home, in 95th overall. Other individual Cheltenham riders put in some solid placings in the mid field - David Koryczan (118th), Mike Saunders (78th), and Mark Smith (98th). Mark achieved his target time despite having twice dropped his pump on the bike lap and having to double back and fetch it! It was also great to see Rob Brown who came along to provide moral support to 'Team CCCC'.
A highlight of the race for me was when, on the first run, ten fully-grown deer suddenly ran across the track right in front of us - quite a surprise!
All in all it was a very enjoyable morning, and for those who like a bit of muddy running along with their muddy cycling I recommend it highly.
