Flow MTB rider Anna took part in the 2nd round of the Hope PMBA Series at Grizedale
Round two of the Hope PMBA Enduro Series was Flow MTB rider Anna’s first enduro race of the year. Despite the conditions and a few over-the-bars she managed to pedal into 5th and a spot on the podium, here’s her race report
First Enduro of the year. Well what can I say? I had the best time ever!
I arrived on sat and did a quick scope of 2 out of 4 stages, it was a lovely day and perfect peddling weather! I decided not to practice on race day and just go straight for it. I’m not very good at remembering courses so I’m better off being a bit fresher and riding the 2 stages I hadn’t rode blind. We signed on and put our start time as 12.25! Fuelled with a bacon bun we set off into the forest!
Well stage one was epic, rocky and fast, I loved it. No offs and I felt pretty speedy! The long slog up to stage two wasn’t so bad either, I was feeling pretty good. Stage two was a beast of a stage, roots steep and muddy at the top onto flowy bike park at the bottom. I couldn’t even ride to the start strip I ran with my bike and jumped on it was so boggy. I made it down just, a couple of slides and a lot of dabbing but nothing too bad.
Stage three was a well known track called Vikings, it was steep and roots again very techy and I found it right at the edge of my limit. I walked/ran down some sections, it was a very tough one. After seeing one of the lads do a spectacular ride into Coniston at the end of the stage, we rode over for the final stage.
Stage four was steep and rooty again, I was shattered with no energy left, by the time I’d hit the first bend I was over the bars, I continued to fall every few meters down the top part of the stage, a long fireroad sprint mid way, and I was done in by the second part of the stage. I had a spectacular over the bars and my left cheek became very well acquainted with a massive rock. I was shook up and winded, I sat look at my bike not knowing what to do. Finally I found the motivation to jump back on and a slow plod to the finish.
I had a brilliant day out with mega company and brilliant racing! I’d recommend to anyone get out on an Enduro with your mates and enjoy it!
Kit: DHaRCO Gravity Jersey Flamingo Sleeves
@flowmtbapparel / anna_n_dexter_the_dog / Photo credits @dialledinUK