Sunday 18^th Nash Mills

 A couple of days after my last visit I’m back at Nash Mills.  This time I was with a couple of friends.

 The day was mild but wet, and the grip had become somewhat compromised.

 Playing follow my leader is a good way to practice especially if they are better than you.  You can watch how they tackle obstacles and try to apply their techniques.  Although it doesn’t always work.

 My riding skills hadn’t improved much since Wednesday, but after an hour things were starting to click into place.  I had looked at some photos I’d taken whilst riding on Wednesday and noticed that I was leaning too far back.  This effectively gets the front wheel up but doesn’t add traction to the back wheel, traction that’s needed to get the bike up and over things.   It’s funny how a little thing can make a big difference. A slight adjustment to my body position and I was once again getting over the obstacles I had found impossible to get over only three days ago.

 Today was a short ride, and was dependant on others being there to be able to ride; it’s a rule of the club.  It was however a very productive day and I was once again pleased with my riding.

 As the day went on the under wheel conditions got worse as the ground became churned up, but this in turn improved my riding skills.

 I tried some new obstacles with mixed results. As the day progressed mud and water began to get spread onto the rocks and logs, and for me there’s a time when that fun and learning can become pushed.

 When I attempted to hop over a log, the rear wheel slipped sideways off the edge I managed to save the inevitable fall but it could have easily ended with a face plant at best or a broken ankle and/or wrist.

I decided enough was enough, I’d had a great morning and my skills and confidence had come on leaps and bounds.  I’m looking forward to next time, and hope it won’t be long.