Dirt Crits long course

THIS was a true test for the committed racers from the MMBCC Dirt Crits crew. Yes, the day had been hot and sticky, and yes, there was remote threat of a storm… maybe. But it never eventuated. But when the going gets tough, the sensible stay at home! Fourteen intrepid souls turned out for the final 2024 XC edition of Dirt Crits on Tuesday December 3. A long, long, long, course had been set out, essentially taking in 95 per cent of the available trails. I do love this long course lap. Based on ability and age, riders had to negotiate either a single lap, or a lap and a half or, for the faster types, two full laps. First out of the start gate was Cam Dobson on his two-lap effort followed by the rest at their allotted start times. And so, the race went. At the end it was Reuben Bateup crossing the line first with a finish time of 40 minutes and four seconds. It is great to see Reuben returning to some good form after a recent heavy crash. Stay upright out there Reuben. Darren Bakker crossed the line in second at 41 minutes eight seconds, a first ever MTB Dirt Crits podium for Darren. It is worth mentioning that Darren took a couple of dives during the race and finished a little bruised and bloodied but obviously happy for a well-deserved podium. Darren also finished second at the Jamieson Road race on Thursday evening, a very consistent week. Shannon Rademaker was third another couple of minutes later. It has to be noted that there is no coincidence that the first three place getters were all on 1.5 laps. The handicapper NEVER makes mistakes like calculating handicaps with an incorrect lap distance. Of course, if any participants are deeply offended by the idea that handicapping mistakes might happen they are more than welcome to take over the job. In fourth– Dan Hall and fifth Adam Baker. Congratulations to everyone and thanks as always to the time keepers on the night, Rob Holmgren and Ben Grundy.

Dirt Crits long course

Garrett too good

Will wins in Jamieson

Scarlett Darcy wins Irish Handicap

Wilson takes back-to-back wins in the Alain Guerin Memorial

Time trial, the race of truth

Rufous Whistler – arrival of a summer songbird

Bombers go back-to-back in A grade

“No stone unturned” – Police committed to the long-haul in manhunt

Start your engines, Wilby Drags are back

Most popular stories