For the sixth year running, the Steel City Downhill returned to Grenoside Woods to fund ever-important trail building and maintenance in the local area. It has grown the reputation for being the 'biggest little race on the calendar' by attracting folk from all across the country of all ages and abilities to race in a fun and friendly environment. It's also a rare chance to compete against some of the biggest names in British mountain biking. As Peaty said, "It's getting better every year!" The race also appeals greatly to spectators, who can heckle from the side of the track, enjoy food from one of the stalls around the finish area, or browse and buy products brought in by exhibitors. As ever, Bradfield Brewery were on site to provide their fantastic event beer 'Peaty's Trail Ale'.
Steve's ACL surgery early last year prevented him from competing in the last race, but he was back with a score to settle and fresh energy to deliver the goods. Josh Bryceland, who took the win last year, was not present, and so it was up to the remaining Elite men to challenge Peat for victory. A heroic first run from Craig Evans put him in the lead, and bettered by his own second run, but a scorcher of a second race run laid down by Peaty brought home the win.
Also, present on the day was decorated British rider Tracy Moseley, who most recently became the Enduro World Champion for three consecutive years (2013, 2014, 2015). She claimed victory by over six seconds, showing her prowess once more.
I am sure everyone present at the race would like to give thanks to everyone who helped organise the race and make it a success: Steve Peat, Nick Hamilton, Steve Hardcastle, Henry Norman, all the marshals, medics, exhibitors and the sponsors.
RESULTSFull results are available on Roots & Rain,
HERE.
Leighton Vans Elite Men
1 - Steve Peat
2 - Craig Evans
3 - James Swinden
Joystick 17-18 Boys
1 - Luke Wall
2 - Oscar Monk
3 - Jamie Stewart
Polaris 19-29 Men
1 - Jonathan Walker
2 - Sam Hockenhull
3 - Joe Tindale
The Cycle Barn 10-12 Boys
1 - Jordan Williams
2 - Kenzie Nevard
3 - Finn Gorman
Expert Bike Repair 13-14 Boys
1 - Thomas Dodd
2 - Moacyr Atkinson
3 - Charlie Mosley
Bike Garage 15-16 Boys
1 - Kade Edwards
2 - Dan Hole
3 - Kieran Kenney
Hope 30-39 Men
1 - Jordan Gould
2 - James Risker
3 - Neil Farmery
Hop Hideout 40+ Men
1 - Scott Turtle
2 - Jason Dickinson
3 - Chris Whitfield
60Sticks Elite Women
1 - Tracy Moseley
2 - Joey Gough
3 - Rebecca Baraona
Polaris 18-29 Women
1 - Abigale Lawton
2 - Hannah Saville
3 - Ellen Flewitt
THE Industries 30-39 Women
1 - Katy Sunter
2 - Caroline Heathcote
3 - Cath Tilford
Bike Rehab 40+ Women
1 - Beverley Adipura
2 - Lindsay Hanley
3 - Nicole Doughty
MENTIONS:
@danhearn /
@steelcitydh /
@FilmSmith
p.s. Pats a little older than 71, dont tell her I told ya
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