British Cycling National Mountain Bike Series round 4 - Tong

The fourth round of the British Cycling National Mountain Bike Series took place in Tong Bradford, last weekend, attracting many riders from across the country. This event is the standout venue in the race calendar with its challenging course, characterised by rugged terrain, steep climbs, and technical descents, including the notable Shibden Rocks feature.

The riders would also face rutted single tracks and technical A lines, which would certainly sort out the wheat from the chaff! The heavy rain during the week and on the previous day would, however leave the riders in a quandary, full wets or race tyres? Zach’s choice of full wets would become a significant factor in his race.

Gridded 11th out of 51 competitors, Zach had a great start as he settled into the opening lap, riding the technical A sections with precision as he looked for his first top ten finish.

Unfortunately, his tyre choice for event did not meet expectations and he slowly slipped back , finishing in 18th place

Zach commented, “It was a bad day at the office. I put in a lot of effort for little reward. I felt strong, but the tyre choice really held me back, especially on the open fire road sections but that’s racing!”

The next event will be held at Kirroughtree, Scotland, on the 29th of June 2025.

Written by Rod Smith.