2004 is well under way and welcome to the February newsletter. The year has started particularly well for RRND with many riders renewing their membership for 2004 along with an increase in numbers competing in the January 'Star Group' trial.
I know that it can be difficult to get a pass for two Sundays every month with family commitments etc. but if we can keep this up we've a good chance of collecting some valuable points and reaching the top four. Don't forget that it's your best 10 results out of 12 that are counted. If you would like to compete in next months Group trial it takes place on the 14th March at Chapel Bank, Rake, West Sussex, all you need is an ACU licence that costs just £10.00 for the year; an application form can be obtained from Antony Read. For those not familiar with 'Star Group' trials, they are very similar to our Club trials and each route is marginally tougher than the equivalent Club route. The average entry is around 60-70 riders at each event and there is plenty of competition and action in each class with the exception of youth riders. The regulations for 'Star Group' trials do allow for both youth A & B categories to take part, yet the entries seem to be very limited, so if any of our junior riders would like to represent the Club there are points waiting for both rider and Club.
Whilst on the subject of youth riders, the ACU rules are rather restrictive based on age and engine capacity and I've outlined these below. However, before you rush out and get a new bike, be aware that changes are due next year that will limit youth riders who can currently ride a 250cc to just 125cc meaning that those presently eligible and owning a 250cc will be forced to spend money on a smaller machine to continue competing under ACU regulations.
Age categories
Class D - Cadets - Born between 01/01/95 and 31//12/98
Class C - Juniors - Born between 01/01/92 and 31/12/94
Class B - Inters - Born between 01/01/89 and 31/12/91
Class A - Seniors - Born between 01/01/87 and 31/12/88
Engine capacities
Class D - Cadets - Maximum 80cc until 31/12/05 from 01/01/06 50cc mono or 80cc twin shock
Class C - Juniors - Maximum 125cc until 31/12/06 from 01/01/07 80cc
Class B - Inters - Maximum 250cc until 31/12/04 from 01/01/05 125cc
Class A - Seniors - Maximum 250cc until 31/12/06 from 01/01/07 125cc
With these changes less than a year away it is worth mentioning that many young teenage riders are just as big and as competent as the adult riders and in many cases can actually perform more trick manoeuvres than adults. These restrictions will therefore be a backward step for many junior riders who can adequately utilise the power of bigger machines to tackle the more difficult routes. Additionally, some junior riders will not be in a financial position to change machines that easily and therefore possibly forcing them out of competition, which is not good for the sport. On this note we've decided to submit a letter to the ACU regarding these matters and how best to promote and not restrict the development of junior riders, we will keep you informed.
Moving on, next came the Club trial at Blacklands Farm on Sunday 25th January and it was good to see many Club members who have not ridden for a while back on the scene. As per usual five sections made good use of the stream and the surrounding banks and were well laid out to take odd points off most riders if you weren't careful, yet nothing to demanding that would cause a 'five'. Two sections were eased off slightly after lap two and many passed comment on a good trial and that is always pleasing to hear. The next Club trial is on a new piece of Land at Horam, East Sussex on 29th February. It's a little further to travel than our normal Club event but the opportunity of new land does not present itself that often, both Pete Jenkins and Derek Tickner-Wand have recently been to survey the land and have come back with positive comments.
Lastly don't forget the Club AGM that takes place this month on the 18th of February at the Red Lion, Betchworth from 8.00pm onwards. And remember, if you've not yet renewed your membership for 2004 please send them in as soon as possible, otherwise you will not be eligible to vote at the AGM.