The first trial of the season took place at Constantia on 15th March on one of those hot days that we have had so many of recently. There was an exceptionally good turn out of fifteen riders with no fewer than six new bikes. There was also a new combination of stalwart Charles Mast on the ex-Neil Tweddle Fantic 307.
The sections had been set a week earlier than usual because of the Argus Cycle Tour the previous weekend, and this gave the local baboons plenty of time to pull out some of the markers and develop a taste for duct tape. On the day, Trevor kindly carried a few spare markers in his backpack and we were able to sort out most of the sections as we went along.
The first section was a new one set by Trevor, and the main obstacles were an oblique uphill log crossing followed by a fair size rock together with a number of turns just to keep it tricky. There were a few cleans, but also a number of fives when the marker at the end of the log was ridden out. The next four sections were all variations on previous well-used sections and followed by the inevitable river section. The experts managed many cleans here but the clubmen, with a slightly shorter route, could not improve on three. The heat of the day and the length and slipperiness of the section undoubtedly contributed to this too.
The next section was also a variation of one used many times before, but this time the experts had to go over a large square boulder at the base of a steep climb and this was definitely the most difficult part of the section. The boulder was high but short so there were a number of endo’s here. As the day progressed, water from the stream was carried closer to the boulder but this did not really make too much difference. This section was, as could be expected, set by Mark. He was saying afterwards there should be a “best section” award and that this should be the section to have it. In hindsight I think he was right as it definitely drew the most interest. We have ridden in that area so many times over the years and I don’t remember ever considering riding over that rock. It just shows the importance of a fresh approach. The last section involved some turns and log crossings, and then put the riders onto the path leading back to the car park. For the first time in probably years, there were more than three riders in the expert class, the addition being Michael Krause on a new Beta 290. Michael always shows a lot of potential and could benefit a lot by riding more events.
In the clubman’s class, Charles Mast was making a comeback, and newcomer Warner Trimmer, an enduro rider, was riding his first trial. Both he and Mark du Plessis had ridden an enduro the day before, and may both have been suffering a bit as a result. Charles was clearly riding well on the Fantic and Warner was showing a lot of enduro technique. This roughly translates to section bashing. He definitely has talent though and as his trials riding improves, so will his enduro riding. Young Ryan Williams was riding very well, but unfortunately he and his father Gavin did not finish the event as they had to leave early.
Earl Krause was also making a comeback and riding well on his new Beta 290.
The results are as follows:
| Experts | Total | Position |
| Brian Barson | 36 | 1 |
| Mark du Plessis | 51 | 2 |
| Michael Krause | 69 | 3 |
| Deon de Villiers | 80 | 4 |
Thanks to the owners of the property and to all for helping set the sections, collecting markers etc and to Beth for helping with the score sheets.
The next trial will be held at Spes Bona, Durbanville on 19th April and will be organised by Jorge.
Regards,
Brian
