XCO Racing kicks off at Bright National Champs
XCO goes off in Bright! Words and Photos by Nick Waygood.
As we head into day 2 of the MTBA National Championships in Bright, Victoria, we see half of the XCO field hit the course, with U15, 17, and Masters groups 5 though to 10 putting pedals to the metals on the Olympic course.
Conditions were dry and relatively cool, with the beginning of autumn bringing with it mid-20 degree temperatures through the week. The event centre continues to heat up though, with over a hundred competitors hitting the course by the middle of the afternoon.
Friday's young kids and elder men and women hit the same Olympic course set up for this years event, consisting of 4 harsh climbs and as many steep, technical descents. It was a gruelling challenge for most, no matter the category or skill level.
Spectators, parents, and supporters alike lined the starting arena as the U15/17 Boys headed up the mountain.
In U15 Men, Harry Doye brings home first ahead of Eddie Willis and Vinnie Manion, with 3 minutes and 44 seconds separating them.
In the U15 Women, Hannah Elliott Completed the lapped course in 44 minutes and 6 seconds, with a several-minute lead ahead of Madeleine Burton and Alexandra Larsson.
In U17 Men, with an additional lap, Joel Dodds finished in just over an hour, ahead of Ethan Weiss, and Owen Fletcher in third.
In the women, Trek Shimano AU racer Hayley Oakes took the lead from the get go, finishing 4 laps of the course in 56 minutes and 48 seconds, putting a significant amount of time into Ruby Dobson in second, 6 minutes and 46 seconds behind. Millie Chester takes third in the category.
Enjoy the above gallery of today's categories. Stay tuned for the big show on Sunday!
