Sussex Weald LDT - Results

Report Sussex Weald Long Distance Trial 4.8.2024

Several months of preparation went into this event as is typical for an LDT. The committee worked out the route, a map was drawn up for submission to the MSA, and the mileage worked out. The route was ridden several times to check any byways were clear and to time various elements for an overall time for the event. The road book was checked for accuracy and Landowners contacted for permissions. Helpers were contacted for observing, notices put up on the byways, advertising, ordering rider numbers, toilets, route markers etc. Clearing sections and setting them out the day prior in most cases. Organising refreshments, getting an ACU licence, battling with Sport 80, compiling entry lists, preparing all the paperwork for the day in question.

One of the biggest surprises was the amount of help offered from outside the club to facilitate the event taking place, and taking on some of the observing duties on the day. Many thanks to those who did this, many of whom said they had enjoyed it. Help at signing on was greatly appreciated and also starting the riders off. The refreshments were very welcome, and generous donations at the tea break raised £120, which will be added to the final event surplus and donated to charity. A final figure will be announced shortly.

A couple of rescue operations took place when machines failed on route and the final duty was clearing up the sections after everyone had finished, the travelling marshalls doing a lot of this on their way round.

A good turnout of over 70 riders was pleasing, after an initial sluggish entry rate, and most seemed to enjoy their day. The results were quite close in several instances, with the speed test deciding preference where scores were tied. The only clean result and fastest time was obtained by Ben Smith riding his normal Beta trials bike, with only the bodywork to sit on for the roadwork! All those S3s have toughened him up and as a first try at a Long Distance Trial, was a great result. Any result in single figures is a good achievement, needing bike skills and concentration over the 85 odd miles between the sections. A lot of newcomers took part and I hope you enjoyed it and will try some similar events. Good to see the regular faces as well.

This was a new format for the club with dual sections and different type bikes denoting classes rather than purely the cc. Any feedback about this is appreciated so we can review for next time. I hope Tom S recovered from his ditch dive and James B from his wasp sting.

Thanks to everyone in the club who contributed to the organising of event, particularly non- club volunteers, and all the participants for making the event a success.

Here are the results...click on the icon below