All content © Bob MuIIins

RAF Ardua 2016 - Slab Common

One of the first races of 2016, across the deep sand of Slab Common was always going to be tough on most riders. The course included an MX style loop and an extreme tyre and log matrix at the end of each lap. 

Returning from a long lay off post his injury, Sherco mounted Tom Ellwood took the hole shot and led for the entire race despite not being fully fit and under the weather. Hot on his heels in the Champ class were Jack Penhaligan finishing second overall and Jack Turner who suffered a high speed crash on the final lap having pushed hard through the long woodland and sandy sections. Following on the experts and clubmen were putting in some good times, taking advantage of the shorter hard route sections that tested some to extremes and kept the marshals warm. First expert across the line James Benney, the Clubmen were headed up by Dave Guley with Veteran winner Chris Stanger.

The remainder of the 105 strong entry persevered with their personal battles with some good tussles across all classes. The log section tempted many and as the hours progressed, weary riders attacked the section with varying degrees of success or spectacular fails. Live timing provided by SEEC's Witley Club, and operated by the kit's creator Manny Bernadez, allowed the spectators and officials to closely follow the rider's progress and see the results as soon as the riders crossed the finish line.

After 3 punishing hours, the majority crossed the line muttering about bike fitness and sand and logs but all seemed happy and enthused to take their successes into the 2016 season. The RAF Team had spent a week preparing Slab and building a testing but enjoyable loop and would like thank all those that rode and supported the race having made the effort to get to Slab despite the snow flurries and a cold day.

Full results online soon at http://www.raf.mod.uk/rafmotorsports/2wheels/arduaenduro.cfm