Rain mud wind and sunshine. Just the way we like it.

After my disastrous last 24 hour solo at SITS last year, it all came good at Eastnor for me at Mountain Mayhem this time.

My goal for the race apart from finishing, was to beat a couple of my regular training partners and mates.

All 3 of us set off fast, for me that meant a quick run and a breathless first few laps. Heck I was even in front of TwinklyDave at one point, though of course not for long. I pitted after 3 laps to be told my rivals James (aka Crazy-Legs) and Simon had 15 minutes on me. They stayed in front for a while longer, riding together and pushing the pace. After a few more laps I reeled Simon in, then once the rain really started James came in for an extended R+R stop. The mud was now horrendous. Several times a lap I had to stop and clean the drive train to ensure the rear mech on the Ti 456 didn’t end up in the rear wheel, there were plenty carrying their bikes back in bits by now.

By lap 7 my rivals had retired. Simon permanently and James for some sleep.

I slogged on through the night. Lots of walking and chatting with pals along the way. Rob and Twinklydave were still flying along, though for me my job was done. Come 10am I needed a lie down and some food, I was officially knackered. Back out for a last lap in the sunshine though.

Great weekend. The riding was good, the company better.

Big thanks to Ann for keeping me fed and my bike clean.

Congratulations to the other On-One boys Rod on 4th place and Dave in his usual 6th.

Me, I came 23rd.

Just back from a glorious weeks holiday on Skye. The weather was absolutely fantastic.

First day took Ann and the kids over the pass to Camusunary, one of my favourite places.

Once there I went to sleep on the beach, they made a mermaid.

Did a few road miles on the Planet-X road bike, otherwise enjoyed the weather and views.

Some lovely sunsets at the campsite in Dunvegan