The fifth round of the Gorrick Exodus Spring Series took place where the series started in February, Yateley Heath, Hants. Then the course was wet, muddy and very long. This time everything had changed. The sun was shining and the track was superb – mostly dry, very fast and fun, something that the Gorrick races have become notorious for throughout the season.

This time the course was revised and took in the usual fire road sprints, as well as an all-new technical singletrack section that caused numerous problems.

In the Novice men’s race Carl Harris (Corridori/Specialised) took his second victory in two weeks, however Anthony Lindsey (Mental Mental Chicken Oriental) was hot on his heels, just 15 seconds behind. Simon Turner (Sussex-mtb.co.uk) came in two minutes later to take third.

There was another close finish in the Sport race as Mark Russell (Team Darenth) snatched victory by just 17 seconds. Next in was Jimmy Finch, followed by Ian Field (San Fairy Ann CC/Sanacre) in this closely contested race. Despite only coming seventh, Andrew Snell’s (Army CU) previous performances ensured that he took the series by just a couple of points.

In the women’s Sport race Amy Thompson (Bike Plus) took a convincing seven minute victory against Amy Crowther (Army CU) who, after several consistent performances won the series.

The Experts produced a great race with Gorrick regular John Veness (Team Kona/Clarks) taking his first victory after coming second in the two previous races. He also took the overall honours for the series. Christopher Minter (Pedalon.co.uk) ground out a second place in both the race and series with Marcos Schier coming in third.

The Expert women also produced a fast display. Lydia Gould took first in the race and second in the series but Jackie Roberts, who has placed competitively in all rounds was impossible to catch – even before the race had started.

The Gorrick series has gone from strength to strength this year, with lots of support from southern area riders and has established itself as one of the best events to take part in. The next event is the Gorrick 100, which takes place in the first week of June.