Helly Hansen Adventure Race Series 1
Cannock Calling – Helly Hansen Series Off to a Flying Start
Rob Howard / 23.09.2008
The first venue was Cannock Chase, which proved such a hit when used for the first time last year, and this time 181 teams arrived at Birches Valley Forestry Centre to compete. There was still a hint of autumn chill in the air when the first teams arrived to register at 08.00, but by the start at 10.00 the sun had burnt off any early morning mist and it was clear it would be a hot day for racing.
The bike transition pen had been placed on area of open, grassy heath land just above the busy visitor centre and hire bikes were available for those who needed them as well. There was even a local radio station in attendance in an open-topped double-decker bus, and with many spectators and supporters present it was a busy event HQ in the lead up to the start.
Before setting off the briefing stressed that there was a remote transition, from which teams would leave their bikes to run out and back to the kayaking stage, so running shoes might need to be carried. There was also a brief guide to basic technique when riding single-track from Cycle Active, as the course included more technical riding this year, and many of the competitors were first time adventure racers with little mountain biking experience.
Run and Ride in the Woods
Despite the crush at registration the race got underway on time, with a mile long run through the nearby forest, which helped split up the teams before they arrived at the bike transition pen to set off on the first mtb stage. The VoTwo.co.uk teams led the way on the run, which was no surprise as they were comfortable winners of the last series, and the field quickly spread out.
This year’s mountain biking route was similar to last year, but with more single track added, which the Trailplus course planners Ian and Dave set among the woodland trails. “I think that’s the main change for this year,� said Race Director Paul Magner, “though the first run was a different route too as we had to avoid the new Go Ape attraction. Overall I think this may be the hardest of the series courses … but we’ll see what we can come up with at the next race at Longmoor!�
SleepMonsters
