This weekend, with a quarter of the season already gone, Cycle Derby are our hosts at Markeaton Park. Last week’s race was fast and furious and attracted three female National Cyclocross Champions from the Senior, Vet40 and Youth B categories. It’s great to know that the quality of our league both produces and attracts riders of this quality and we should point out to our younger riders that Olympians at both 2012 and 2016 started their cycling careers with the NDCXL (Annie Last and Nikki Brammier nee Harris… you did listen to the interview in the last race report didn’t you?!). So which stars will be on show at Markeaton?
Which Markeaton will it be? An early season fast dry course? A challenging wet mudfest with the question “Will they or won’t they get up round that tree” on the single track through the woods after the drop. Or the conditions that we all fear, mud and the rear-mech wrenching leaves which can take their toll even on the first lap. Whichever it is the dark art of tyre selection and pressure will be crucial as well as the support from the pits for those that are fortunate enough to have it.
The postcode for this event is DE22 4AA and there is a pay and display car park. Two things to note are firstly that there is a height barrier so please heed the instructions as you approach (There is normally an alternative route for those that need it), and secondly that car park attendants are on site and they are very vigilant as I have found to my cost!
Finally, as I look out of my window, the heavens have opened! At least the leaves are still in the trees……
Andrew Briggs