The weather gods have let us down for the last two events so a quick talking to and a threat to switch allegiance to a different Deity and things are back to normal! The event in Cockermouth was blessed with beautiful weather making it almost too hot at at times. It did not seem to slow people down much though as there were several clearances. We always advertised the series as being a bit shorter than normal and this seemed to catch a few out. Having forfeited some early controls they realised that they were running out of options and came in early with nothing left within reach. All of the courses this year have been about 50km to clear instead of the usual 55-60km. All part of the tactics!
Alan Hartley continued his good form and cleared up with time to spare to take his fourth series win. However he was pushed hard by generation pairing of Jamie and Charlie Rennie who also cleared but took just 3 minutes longer. Can Alan make the clean sweep at the last event or will the Rennies deprive him? After three weeks of cat and mouse between the top ladies, Caitlin managed to snatch back the overall lead from Fiona with a clearance and also open up a significant gap at the top. Can Fiona can fight back in the final round? Can Kate stage a comeback?
Apologies for a slight misplacement of #16 on the map. It was only about a millimetre out but it made it look like it was on the next junction. Anyone who let us know that they could not find it has been credited with the points.
Many thanks to Adam and Steve for giving up their evening to open 4Play Cycles for us. If you didn't have time to look around the shop I am sure that they would love to see you again when you are passing.
Apologies also for the quality of the printing. It seems that I have a faulty magenta cartridge but it will be replaced for the final event. I did not hear that it caused anyone any problems.
The final round is the potentially the best of the year being held in the beautiful scenery of the Calder Valley. Based at the Oddfellows Arms in the centre of Caldbeck, we will venture onto terrain previously untouched by the ABC. Prize giving will take place afterwards. Please stay behind and enjoy the food and drink on offer by the pub and join in the gossip. As well as category winners there will be spot prizes as well so everyone has a chance to go home with something. If you are ordering food you may be asked to place your order before you start to make life easier for the chef.
Last night results and details of the next event are on the BMBO website as always. look for ward to seeing you for a grand finale.
Tony & Angela.