Winter Trail Quest Series Round 4
[Saul, Downpatrick]
Round 4 of Dromara Cycling Club's Winter Trial Quests took place on Sunday 15 January 2012 from the event headquarters at Paddy's Barn in Saul, Downpatrick. The last time this venue was used was back in Spring 2011 and, despite the middle of January, the riders were treated to almost spring like weather conditions, dry, little wind with the sun breaking through the clouds. Perfect conditions to explore the beautiful County Down countryside.
There was another big turn out for this round with 91 riders of all ages and abilities making up 45 teams all eagar to take part in these mountain bike orienteering events. Their task was to collect as many markers as they could and return to Paddy's Barn in the time limit which was either 2 hours or the more popular 3.5 hours. The markers were either orienteering flags or based on local features and had different point values depending on how difficult they were to get to. The 33 markers were spread out across a wide area from Downpatrick to Strangford and down to Ardglass along back roads, bridle paths and coastal cycle routes.
Forming a team, the riders had to specify a team name, which adds to the fun on the day. First team away were "Twisted and Grumpy" who were handed their map, answer sheet and a pen at 10:31. One minute later team "Bert and Fred" left, followed by "Fuzzy Ducks" and so it continued until around 11:20. Among the teams leaving were 4 groups doing the 2 hour event which suited the youth riders that made up the teams.
When the teams had returned, they handed in their answer sheets and then enjoyed the tea and sandwiches provided by the staff at Paddy's Barn. When the sheets were marked the results were posted on the club's message board. Top team was "Not the Sunday Run" who scored 460 out of a possible 620 points. Solo rider Paul McArthur finished just 3 points behind with another solo rider, Graham Boyd, finishing on 420 points. Dromara CC trio "The Losers" finished fourth on 410 which equalled another solo rider, Alan Richardson.
Of the teams doing the two hour event there was join winners, teams "Young Gun & Old Canon" and "Must do better" both getting 130 points.
The 5th and final round of the series will be held on Sunday 29 January 2012 from the headquarters at Shimna Valley, Bryansford, Newcastle. This location is one of the retreats for the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children which the Trail Quest series is raising money for. See website for more details.
Many thanks to Stephen Heasley and Niall Cochrane for setting up and running the event.
Report and photos by Martin Grimley
IF YOU WISH TO BE KEPT INFORMED OF ANY UPCOMING TRAIL QUESTS PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO MARTIN @ DROMARA CYCING CLUB.
martin@dromaracc.co.uk
