BBF was a resounding success for London Phoenix again this year, despite overnight rain threatening to turn it into the BMF.

Heavy rain meant the first few laps were tough and technical, especially for those who had been “volunteered” to do the 1st lap (Nick and Stuart in the 2 team races). But the course dried out nicely from mid-morning and by the afternoon Ashton Court once again offered probably the most enjoyable “proper” mountain bike race course in the calendar. The course got faster and faster as the day wore on and the smiles got broader as each lap was completed.

After nearly 12 hours of fast and furious racing the honours were divided as follows:

London Phoenix A (Matt W, Gary, Simon, Stuart) – 9th/146
London Phoenix MTB (David, Federico, Nick, Andy) – 24th/146
London Phoenix Chix (Abi/Geraldine) – 3rd
London Phoenix Mixed (Dan/Isabel) – 12th

The A team were only a minute off 8th spot occupied by the Brighton Big Dogs, with Gary putting in two sub 30 min laps. And Stuart sustained a nasty bite from, yes, a big dog, on his 4th lap. Surely no coincidence??! There’s unfinished business for the Brighton Big Dog event on 15 August (http://www.brightonbigdog.com/)

And thanks to Pete Tiley / Titan Images for the great shots, and Stuart for the words