Wednesday, August 17, 2011

JetBlack 12hr



A week of 12hr work days wasn't the preparation I had in mind heading into the Rocky Trail weekend at Dargle Farm. That and carrying out a full bike rebuild after the muddy Callala 100km. So between work, the rebuild and adequate sleep, there didn't seem enough time in a day to punch out a nice taper or even just a lap around the block.

We arrived early Saturday morning for the start of the JetBlack 12hr, but it wasn't near as cold as last years 12hr. The NSW and ACT members of Team Enduro Pulse were all due to arrive with our dedicated support crew, excited to get out on our Yeti's and have some fun. Craig and Jamie planned to team up and give the pairs category a run for it's money while my plan was just to ride through the day and enjoy the night laps.

The track was very similar to last year with just a couple of short additions to get around some fallen trees. Due to some moisture laden ground sections did get a little tacky but nothing to worry about. The trail is a mixture of open fire-trail, rocky single-track traverses, a few berms and pumps, with just about all the downhill sections being single-track. You even would have to use the granny on the finally a climb, unless you were a SS.

After some solid hours out on track I was sitting comfortably, it seemed like everyone was out for a good time, happy to chat and offering room to pass. There were few incidents that I saw, the occasional flat of the first few hours, a couple of broken chains and a few of the unfortunate stick vs hanger/frame. There was a generous vibe and relaxed atmosphere over the course of the 12hrs, can’t forget a big shout back to those people encouraging throughout the race.

Just before the half way point I had a small issue and made a quick fork swap on the bike, then headed back out for my remaining laps. From there it didn't seem to long before everyone way putting lights on, bring on the darkness, I had my Ay-Up's fitted from the start of the race. The darkness brought with it a temperature drop and out came the arm warmers and wind vest.

Jason English made it look easy, again winning the event. While I placed a comfortable 7th, Team Enduro Pulse Pairs pulled themselves into a podium position and took out the top peg. Congratulations to the riders who backed up from last weekends Callala 100km. And a massive thumbs-up to the half a dozen or so dedicated riders who helped getting the injured rider out.

A big thanks to my supporters for their dedication, real advice and keeping me riding. Thanks to Team Enduro Pulse and our team partners who keep us on the trails and racing. Keep an eye on Enduro Pulse for a full report and the next great event.

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