The Pedalon.co.uk/Dirtworker sponsored SouthernXC Series returns this year with six dates and several new courses brand new for 2009.
Along with new sponsor Dirtworker comes an even bigger pot of prize money for the top three elite and expert riders, plus a Dirtworker bike washer for the winner of one category, with the category in question being rotated at each event.
A new addition to the racing is the SouthernXC Team Challenge. This entails three riders racing to finish with the most points between them as possible, and the team with the most points receiving the Team Challenge Shield at the end of the series.
Round 1 – 26 April, Bordon, Hampshire
The Bordon course is a favourite with riders – smooth, flowing singletrack with a few berms and jumps thrown in for a bit of fun. If you’ve never raced Bordon, you’re missing out, so come and give it a go. Hosted in conjunction with West Drayton MBC.
Round 2 – 17 May, Crow Hill, near Ringwood, Hampshire
An opportunity to pre-ride the recently adjusted Crow Hill course that’s being used for the 4th round of the National XC series and English Marathon Champs in June. Some new sections of course have been built, including a sweeping gully descent from the main hill.
Round 3 – 7 June, Pippingford Estate, near East Grinstead, East Sussex
New for 2009. The arena will be based above a stunning valley. The course then heads in to the mature estate woodland and round fishing lakes. The course prep has started and is looking good. The organisers are so happy with the trails that the series goes there twice in 2009.
Round 4 – 12 July, Erlestoke, near Devizes, Wiltshire
Most people’s favourite course in 2008, an absolute classic. The team have been working hard on the course, which will include the figure of 8 and bridge section. This course tests even the best, but leaves everyone with a smile.
Round 5 – 2 August, Old Park Farm, near Alton, Hampshire.
(incorporating the Southern area Champs)
This new venue replaces the troubled Brick Kiln Farm used previously. Situated on top of a hill, from the arena you drop for about a mile on fast, sweeping singletrack. A really fun, challenging course with some deceptively tough hills!
Round 6 – 6 September, Pippingford, near East Grinstead, East Sussex
The series returns to Pippingford for the final round. There’ll be the best bits of track from round three thrown in again, plus some new stuff. Expect some long, steep descents and climbs to match.
Event facilities will include a trade stand, catering, toilets and Timelaps timing. There will be limited camping facilities available at all rounds except the first, however please check with the organisers before arriving.
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