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MPS RACING - THE TOUGH ONE - January 2007
This being the first event to bring the whole team together, all the riders were keen to put in 100% effort, so the week before found them bolting lights to bikes and helmets, and then out riding in the woods trying to find the best set up. Each rider using different systems to suit their riding, but all putting considerable effort into their preparation.
The morning of the event the bikes were all lined up in front of the transporter, looking emaculate and well prepared. Steve Island had found us a perfect place to set up camp, and the new team which included for this weekend seven times world champion Anders Eriksson, created a lot of interest.
The weather and mood was good and all the riders were keen to get started, just before the start the heavens opened, but nothing could dampen their enthusiasm, Si and Lee set off on foot (Le Mans style start) by running 250 meters up the hill, to their waiting machines. Gavin and Edd set off 2 minutes behind.
Lee had a good start, and came through the first lap in the top ten, Si approximately five places behind him. Gavin and Edd were caught in the fight for position on the tight track, but with two hours of riding a head of them time could, and was made up.
After three laps, Lee was hit by another rider while holding a top six position the collision damage his rear brake, after repairs on the course he continued for another lap, but unfortunately he had to retire, as the course was too extreme to continue with no rear break.
As darkness fell Si, Gavin and Edd were still going strong. Gavin came in for a pit stop and changed helmets for one with two lights mounted on it, and Edd came in for clean, dry gloves; by the half way stage 25% of the field had retired.
After two hours the checkered flag came out with Si finishing in 15th place, out of 25 starters in the Pro class, Gavin finishing in a excellent 3rd position, with Edd just behind him in a splendid 8th place, having dropping several places after a spectacular crash on a steep down hill.
For our first team event we were delighted, everybody from riders to supporters had given 110%.
The Husqvarna's had performed faultlessly, bring on the next event. Gavin and Edd DBT Ellerton Bank, 28 Jan 07 with Si and Lee attending the WEC preview in San Remo, followed by the Snow Run 4th Feb 07, for all Team Members, including Mick and Gavin's Dad Mark.
Many thanks to every one who assisted us at the event, especially our three main sponsors Mick Carter from Husky Sport, Nick Turner from Motul Oil and Rob Sartin from Talon Engineering, which goes without saying we couldn’t compete without you.
View the event websites: www.worevents.com www.thetoughone.com
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