Been there, Dungog !
The Upper Hunter hamlet turned on the most glorious weather for the annual NSW MTBO championships at the weekend.
Interstate entrants came from Queensland, Victoria and the ACT. Photos from the day by Craig Steffens can be viewed here.
Organiser Greg Bacon reports: "The Long Distance and Sprint championships were held on Dungog Common which is used as a mountain bike and walking park for the local community. There are large areas of open cattle grazing land that was rideable in the event. It was evident from the first sprint race that working out the open areas from the bush was an issue as well as the numerous cow trails that looked like tracks.
"The first sprint race took longer than planned and all were happy to have a short break before taking on the second sprint race. The second sprint was over the same area and finished on a positive note for most with some very close times in the classes."
The attendance for the event was disappointing however the competition was keen and most that attended came along for dinner at the local pub after the racing.
The long distance event had a few extra starters and a new start location on top of the main mountain range running through the common. With nearly 300m of climb and some very fast to technical mountain bike trails, competitors were in for a fun day. Most finished close to the stated times for the event and all at least had a smile on their face. The open area did not seem to be as big an issue and riders made good use of route selection in the open areas.
The riders were greeted with a sausage and bacon sandwich at the finish line and many stayed for a chat after the race. Both events had a very friendly atmosphere and after the shock of the longer than expected times for the first sprint the long distance event turned out to be a winner for most riders.
A big thanks to all who helped in organising the event and the willing hands for control collection and packing up at the finish. Thanks to the interstate riders for travelling to the event and getting a taste of Dungog Common."
We note that Big Foot munchkin Aoife Rothery (with terrific O genes handed down by dad Eoin and mum Cath Chalmers) rode in the Women's Easy course. Likewise the Power (NC) boys in the Men's Easy. Well done kids!
