BMCA 2018-19.
With New reporter Luke Stratton.
We must say thank you to Al Ussher who has now handed over the report mantle to Luke, for all the work he has put in over the last past years. And don't forget to support his Air Ambulance trial in October, as turning up for that would be the best way of saying thank you.
Also Good luck to you Luke with your riding and reports.
So here is the First Report from Luke this year.
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Our reporter in deep thought, while Pete Reed spins a yarn.
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2019 Fixtures Now at the top of the Page.........
Hunnington 20.01.2019
by Spanner | Jan 22, 2019
Ben Millichap, Bantam
Organised and laid out by Steve Leyshon and Kevin Walker, this week’s trial was hosted at Hunnington, a return visit following the earlier trial of October 2018. And what a difference a few months have made, this week was an entirely different experience! Not just a one-trick pony, this venue keeps you on your toes. The water level in the stream was higher, and the surrounding banks a lot more slippery than on our last visit.
Although the weather on the day was fine and dry, the ground conditions made for a ‘proper trial’ as many commented. The clay soil, now saturated and slippery, was tricky to walk on, let alone ride over. Nevertheless the guys did a sterling job of setting out the sections and brought off another great trial.
The experts class top spots went to Ben Millichap, Kevin Taylor and Paul Howells. Grass track man Millichap shone through this week, with agility and control aplenty, he saw off the regular seasoned BMCA competitors. A hair’s width difference between Taylor and Howells, saw Taylor take second by just two marks.
Paul Howells, Bantam
The over 350cc class was a two man battle with both competitors on Triumph twins. Simon Chell bettered Pete Reed to take the class win 79 points to 102. Hats off to both guys for having the guts, and the muscle, to tackle the trial on such big, lovely sounding, machines!
Pete Reed, Triumph
The Intermediate class also saw close competition with podium places going to Jim Teague, Dave Jones and Kelvin Walker. Teague took the win in style, a clear thirteen points ahead of Jones. A couple of lap’s worth of riding the wrong route cost Walker dearly, resulting in third place – by his own admission – had he paid more attention to the marking, perhaps he would have taken second!
It was another close-run affair for the Clubmen. Tony Hill, George Houghton and Andy Hunt heading up the field. Hill just pipped Houghton to take first place by one mark. Hunt returning from a sojourn, showed his true pedigree and finished just three points adrift of first place. Great riding all round!
New riders who had shown up to recent trials were once again in attendance, and it was good to see Mick “Bonkey” Bowers and the Chell family, Simon, Chris and Joe travelling down and enjoying their outing – hopefully they will carry on to become BMCA regulars and give the rest of us a chance to test our mettle!
Report and Pics: Spanner
Andy Hunt, Villiers
Jim Teague, Drayton C15
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2018 Trials.
Stunning surroundings and views of Long Mynd greeted the competitors and observers as they arrived at the BMCA trial at Wommerton, 23rd September 2018 organised by Nigel Houlston and John Davies. Despite the forecast, the long reaching views from the paddock were clear, unobstructed, and made you feel honoured to be there larking about on a motorbike!
Podium places in the clubman class went to Ian Brittain (6points), Tony Hill (12 points) and Steve Haines (21 points) in descending order.
Un-hampered by the carburettor problems that afflicted him last week, Brittain strode ahead picking up points on only two sections after replacing the troublesome Monobloc with a concentric model.
Hill put in a solid performance with only one section proving a stumbling block. Haines rode steadily and brought home a well-deserved third place.
Steve Leyshon must take the medal for most determined rider of the week: his kick start broke, leaving him to attempt the entire trial with the engine running – it wasn’t to be, unfortunately retirement was forced upon him.
With competition close in the intermediate class, twenty-three points spread over the class, Joe Owen (18 points), Mark Strong (20 points) and Kevin Walker (23 points) took the lead. Good control Owen proved his merit, cleaning section two on laps three and four where his contemporaries fell. Snapping at his heels, Strong narrowly missed out on first place, the only rider in the class to clean section nine every lap. Steady riding by Walker resulted in a creditable third place given he was suffering from a dragging clutch.
Close competition in the expert class was evident in the six point spread between first and third. Nathan Jones (5 points), Peter Edwards (5 points) and Kevin Taylor (11 points).
Jones took the win on most cleans, other than a five on section three he rode the trial clean. The five that Jones picked up, nearly cost him more than that: he was lucky that a tree branch to the face only took his glasses away leaving him with a black eye and nothing more.
Edwards followed closely with a great ride, but picked up his marks over more sections. The bark of Taylor’s C15 echoed through the woodland as he skilfully piloted it to a convincing third place, eight points ahead of the next competitor.
A special mention to fourth place, Paul Howells: showing that the precise handling rigid Bantam is a capable machine in the right hands.
A mix of sections within the stream bed and others on the tall, steep banks made up the course. All well thought out and testing enough to take marks without punishing the riders.
Sections three to seven making up the stream work, gave less challenge across the board, yet were the favourite of many riders. Most marks were taken on the banks where the question of grip came in to play, the sections were still enjoyable and well received by riders.
‘Grip’ was the word heard in conversation all around the paddock, or more specifically how much lack of it there would be – the venue has a reputation!
The riders needn’t have worried too much, as the ground conditions for most sections were fairly grippy with the odd exception. Where the grip deteriorated, it did so quickly, section two for example was a completely different section by lap two.
An unfortunate accident saw Graham Archer take a tumble between sections, forcing him and son Peter to retire. Reports are that Graham is well, which will be a huge relief to his fellow riders – we look forward to seeing him back in action soon.
Making a welcome repeat appearance this week, Harry Brittain observed on section three with Grandad Pat to keep him company. A very fine job they did too, enthusiastic and focussed, not a dab went unnoticed! It is a pleasure to see such a nice young man take an interest in trials and we hope to see him riding with us soon under tutelage of his able Dad!
Pulling all the stops out to close the trial at section ten BMCA stalwart, Pete Reed, raced through on the big Triumph to a round of applause from fellow riders. When told “its not a scramble Pete!” his response was “Well, when there’s so many eyes on yer, you ‘ave ter pull summit out the bag!”
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Photo Courtesy Hammertight,
Luke Stratton and Natalie Forman Pulling the section markers, so important to get involved this much to keep the scene running.
Thanks Guys.
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Ian Brittain Now with a Concentric carburettor has a better day without the spluttering and loss of power, I still blame the modern pump fuel for most carb problems.
Kevin Walker on the Triumph Cub TR20 engine, but is that the Drayton frame that Kevin uses on one of his bikes.
The Rigid BSA Bantam with a later engine than would have been fitted into the original D1 competition model, but still more in the keeping than a lot of the current crop of so called works replica D14 1967 BSA Bantams.Paul Howells proving what a good little bike it is.
Mick Parkes BSA Bantam with the snake charming exhaust system enjoying his ride at the Wommerton trial..
Photos Courtesy "Hammertight".
More reports and Photos Next week from Dave Woods Trial.
30/09/2018.
Milwich. BMCA Trial.
Today, the BMCA regulars risked nose bleeds and travel sickness by taking a trip into unfamiliar territory north of Birmingham for the fourth round in the current series, held at Manor Farm, Milwich, Staffs.
This was the third BMCA trial to be held at Milwich and riders were treated to the very rare sight of dry and dusty banks as opposed to the more common serving of mud, mud and more mud.
The weather forecast all week promised dry and sunny right through until late Sunday, so for section plotting the gamble was taken to make maximum use of the high banks that feature at Milwich and put in as many cambered climbs and turns as possible in an attempt to disorientate riders and snatch a few marks. It worked on occasion, more of that later…
In the clubman class the win was a closely contested affair between regular Steve Leyshon and newcomer to a BMCA event Simon Wilmore on his C15, Simon edging it with 5 marks lost to Steve’s 6.
Section 6 gave both riders the most trouble with Simon losing 3 and Steve 4 of their respective totals. It could though, have been decided here on lap 1 in Steve’s favour when the C15 plonked a bit too low and seemed to stop. In that moment’s silence you could almost hear the carb sucking on its terminal breath (as well as a faint sob from the rider, fearing the inevitable 5) but the motor somehow burst back into life and carried its very relieved rider to the ends cards. Lucky bugger - or just supremely confident throttle control after the Mick Andrews masterclass…
In third place 4 marks further back was Steve Haines with another of those what might have been results as a 5 on section 9 on the last lap put paid to what would have been a class win on furthest clean
In the Inters, there was another extremely close finish with Joe Owen just edging Kevin Walker for the win with 26 lost to 27.
These two posted very similar totals on most sections and put up great rides on the difficult cambered climb of section 10 where inters rode the expert route. Kevin remained clean here on all four visits but after cleaning effortlessly on lap 1, Joe had a bit of a groin meets fuel tank rodeo moment at the top of the climb and did well to salvage a 3 on a bouncing Bantam before reverting to nice cleans on his remaining visits. In fact, these two had amongst the best rides overall on section 10 with only three other expert riders staying feet up and only another two losing the same 3 mark total of Joe.
Great performances, which makes you wonder what they were playing at on section 6, a section I thought might nick the odd dab here and there around the back of the tree but took big marks from both of them. You never can tell. You also never can tell when someone is going to have a wretched days trialing….
In another episode of the ‘what might have been’ series on how to screw up your chances of winning, someone’s afternoon was going from bad to worse.
Third place Paul Cook’s sudden loss of navigational ability saw him go the wrong way, not once, but twice on Sue Jones’ section 4 sticking 10 marks on his score.
That was the win gone there and then but prior to that things had already escalated to a whole new level of clowning on section 10, just to make absolutely sure he chucked away the win as far as possible… Arriving at section 10 on lap 1 with only 1 mark lost and with confidence soaring, a demonstration was thought to be in order on how to pivot turn up the first climb (been reading Bernie’s book again…) Dropping down the bank onto the ledge, things were in control as the bike was turned into and up the climb. The front wheel rose in a perfect arc pawing the air gently as the bike came around to point up the bank – but kept coming and kept arcing as the tail started wagging the dog whose ‘paws’ got considerably larger as by now the arc had become a perfect 180 pivot turn, the front wheel no longer gracefully pawing the air but reaching for heaven as the DOT launched itself back the way it came and mounted the nearest tree.
Yours truly was observing and my enjoyment of a rather delicious chocolate hobnob biscuit was ruined as it was spat out in the guffawing that followed.
Lap 2 and this time I made sure I wasn’t eating a biscuit. How wise a decision as the whole sorry saga of lap 1 was repeated. I thought it was groundhog day… That'll be another 10 marks then. Some wise words from the observer had the ship righted for the remaining laps with cleans recorded on each with ease – my invoice is in the post.
Cooky was riding a D.O.T – "Dives On Trees"…
In the experts there were no such dramas for Steve Hay who had an excellent ride on some tricky sections to remain feet up all day. Again, the fight for runner up was a close fought affair with Kevin Taylor on 5 just edging it from Nathan Jones on 6 whose loss of 2 on section 7 on the final lap, while Kevin cleaned section 10 on his final visit, ultimately decided those positions.
And so another trial drew to a close, the last minute forecast of rain having held off thankfully. Hopefully everyone enjoyed the trial and the winner’s marks in each class was about where they should be. Thanks to all who came and rode and to those who observed
Dave Wood Report.
~Oo> Thanks Dave first class as ever,
Paul Cook D.O.T. was the Star Attraction on the day,
Just a Pity there was not a Camera in action, or better still a Video.
If you go to any BMCA trials and take a few shot with your phone or camera please send them to me and I will publish them. you may become a star, and even find a New career.
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The BMCA trial at Hunnington 07th October 2018,
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Set within grounds adjoining the clay pigeon shoot and local model aircraft club, commenced with a poignant minute’s silence to mark the passing of long-standing competitor, mentor, bike builder and friend: Jim Pickering, who sadly lost his battle with cancer.
Organised and set-out by Steve Leyshon, ten sections covered multiple disciplines, with sections in the stream as well as making great use of the surrounding banks. A good mix of terrain and well-thought-out setting out, made for an enjoyable yet challenging trial.
Experts class top spots went to Steve Hay, Kev Taylor and Mick Parkes, a very tight battle with all three on 4 points or less.
Continuing his success on the ex-works powered Bantam, Hay fought off Taylor to win by one point to his two. Not far behind them, Parkes put in a solid performance and brought home third place on four points.
A good entry in the intermediates class gave close competition for places throughout the field. Mark Lucas proved the best rider, steady and confident, he was four points clear of the competition. Jones and Partridge tied on points and cleans, sharing second place. By a strange quirk of fate, they clocked-up the same points as each other on the same sections! Colclough, tired and weary from a two day classic trial in Scotland the previous weekend, rode through the pain with determination to a well creditable third place.
Clubman class is proving to be wide open this season, testament to the quality of the riders. John Cope rode like a champ to secure his first win in the class – great stuff considering that he has only recently recovered from a painful knee problem which required surgery. Second place went to Colin Billington, just two marks adrift from top spot.
Congratulations must be in order for Bob Davies, who after a long break from riding due to injury, scored only three marks more than the class winner showing he’s still got it!
Frustration and persistence – every trials rider has their story of sticking with it when your bike is playing up. Once you’ve run your newly built bike through a two day trial, a road trial or two as well as a couple of closed trials, you’d probably expect the faults to be ironed-out.
So too did Ray Barrat, but unfortunately his well-presented Mick Mills framed B25 has picked up a bad habit of chewing on his drive chain. Frustrated, Barrat had to pull out of this week’s trial, when the chain kept dismounting.
Despite his best efforts and those of helpful spectators, it was not to be.
Hopefully he’ll have it sorted out before long. Brittain too, suffered mechanical gremlins which nearly spelt an end to his trial. A grabbing clutch made the going tough, but carburettor issues on top of this made things worse.
Recent events have reinforced the appreciation of the camaraderie that can often go un-noticed.
Stopping......... and thinking about it....... for a minute, you realise that we are blessed by good nature and friendship just by turning up to the trial:
Familiar faces manned the sections, old friends and riders enjoying a week out of the saddle.
Credit to them all, for their efforts and attendance, it may sound corny, but we couldn’t do it without them.
A new face, although becoming a regular observer, showed us he doesn’t need the hinderance of any grumpy old men, Brittain Jnr ably ran the show on section two: a tricky little weave through trees, which could catch you out easily if you didn’t concentrate.
Eagle eyed Brittain made sure that nobody got away with a sneaky dab and called the riders through with confidence.
Making a welcome return to the saddle Bob Davies and Craig Richardson rode like they’d not taken a break – it is great to see them back.
Long may we keep it up, in memory of those we’ve lost.
Charlie.~Oo> R.I.P. Jim.
BMCA Results: Experts up to 350cc: Steven Hay (BSA) 1, Kev Taylor (BSA) 2, Mick Parkes (Ban) 4, Laurence Alden (BSA) 5, Jim Teague (C15) 9, Nigel Randall (BSA) 10. Experts over 350cc: Peter Reed (Tri Twin) 17. Inters: Mark Lucas (C15) 7, Dave Jones (BSA) 11, Scott Partridge (Cub) 11, John Colclough (James) 15, Craig Richardson (Cotton) 16, Ernie Johnson (Cub) 18. Clubman: John Cope (BSA) 8, Colin Billington (Ban) 10, Bob Davis (Ban) 11, Tony Hill (Ban) 16, Dave Harrison (BSA) 17, John Nyons (Ban) 21. Report by Spanner & Hammertight. Photos by Eric Miles. 9413 - Scott Partridge (Cub) 9540 - Kev Taylor (C15)
Cheers - Luke
Thank you Luke.
Photo Courtesy Eric Miles.
Kev Taylor riding his Drayton BSAC15
Photo Courtesy Eric Miles.
Scott Partridge forces on his barking Triumph Cub.
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Easthope Air Ambulance Trial.
A very wet and misty day greeted observers, riders and spectators at this week’s BMCA Trial, hosted at Easthope 14th October 2018 organised by Al Ussher. The trial was laid out by Nigel Houlston, John Hughes, Andy Lane, Robin Pope and John Pinches.
The proceeds of the annual trial go to Air Ambulance with the land owner and BMCA giving up their fees and riders donating generously in the paddock.
Final count of the amount raised to be confirmed, however in excess of £200 was taken from rider's donations - well done all.
Certainly, the money raised will be greatly received and help support this worthy and valuable service.
In the expert class podium places were taken by familiar faces: Steve Hay, Kev Taylor and Paul Howells.
What certainly was not familiar were the high scores attained, with the class winner on 35 points. Hay proved his skill by being the only competitor in the class to pick up a solitary point on section 8 where his next nearest rival was on 5 points. Unfortunately for Taylor, despite having the lowest score over the first three sections, it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Taking a break from his rigid Bantam, because it is locked in his father’s garage, Howells rode his former favourite bike to a well-deserved third place.
Taking the top spots in the intermediate class were Nick Woolley, Ian Brittain and Mike Butler.
Ariel rider, Woolley, performed consistently well to finish 11 points in the lead and was the lowest scorer on section 9, Al’s favourite section. Enjoying a continued run of success despite engine niggles, Brittain rode the big Enfield to convincingly take second place with several admiring comments from fellow competitors. Reluctant to leave the comfort of the van, Butler put in a strong performance proving his critics wrong to claim third place.
Christopher Dean, Dave Harrison and George Houghton fought a tightly run battle in the Clubman class with only a 10-point spread between the top three places.
A credible victory was taken by Dean, proven by the points, as he was the only Clubman to clean sections 1 and 3 over all four laps. Steady riding by Harrison ensured second place over Houghton who was close on his heels.
Clubman rigid class, unique to Easthope in the BMCA calendar, saw the annual outing of Dave Jones’ rigid Bantam which, due to a slipping clutch, was reported to be ‘riding like it had a sloppy cush drive’. Charles Millington’s well-presented 70 year old Norton piped sweet music as he rode the sections. Making its first outing of the season was Les Richardson’s 1930s Panther. Reported to have been riding like a dream, the fun was soon cut short by a front tyre puncture. Perhaps more preparation than a few laps around the garden would have helped prove its reliability.
A little bit of rain doesn’t dampen the spirits of hardy BMCA regulars, prior to the trial, expert over 350cc supremo, Reed, was busy giving mathematics lessons to an insubordinate Owen whilst Bob Davies did his best to stall the rain by dancing in the paddock. However, the rain did persist throughout, only drying up slightly as the last few departed the paddock.
The rain had been non-stop for two days preceding the trial, resulting in the venue living up to its reputation of being a right muddy mess!
An early morning review of the sections was undertaken and some easing off carried out, to allow for the inevitable.
Despite best intentions and efforts, conditions were treacherous, grip all but gone to most by the end of the second lap, which made for a scoreboard more like those of old: nobody on a score lower than 20 points.
Never the less, fun was had by everyone - mud and all! It was a treat to see some period correct machines being put through their paces, all credit to their owners/riders for bringing them along. Misfortune caused a half-dozen riders to take an early bath, bad luck lads. Dave Pengilly, riding Al Ussher’s Ex-works DOT, made a promising start only for the bike to develop a distinct unwillingness to rev, cause unknown – hopefully the bike will be back on form for Dave to put it through its paces at the forthcoming BMCA trial at Bedlam – watch this space.
Special thanks to: Al Usher, accompanied by his wife and daughter, who was present to document the event in photographic form at his favourite section and to collect the gratefully received donations on behalf of the Air Ambulance. Also, thanks from Nigel Houlston to the loyal observers who battled the elements and the sodden score cards/running ink to record the results.
Report by Spanner
BMCA Results: Experts up to 350cc: Steven Hay (BSA) 63, Kev Taylor (C15) 46, Paul Howells (Ban) 63, Joe Owen (Ban) 101, Ady Green (FB) 105. Experts over 350cc: Peter Reed (Tri Twin) 92. Inters: Nick Wooley (Ariel) 49, Ian Brittain (RE) 58, Mike Butler (Ban) 67, Mark Strong (Ban) 70, Luke Stratton (Ban) 75. Clubman: Christopher Dean (BSA) 21, Dave Harrison (BSA) 29, George Houghton (Ban) 31, Martin Mackenzie (Ban) 33, John Cope (Ban) 38, Paul Guise (BSA) 41. Report by Spanner. Photos by Hammertight.
5266 - Charles Millington (Norton) points the 70 years old Norton Road Holder forks on course up section 9. 5243 - Dave Jones (Ban) gamely climbs the three speed mist-green Bantam, with Natalie observing. 5282 - Mark Strong joins Gresford Classic Club's visitors Ady Green and John Dutton, John's Firefly is alongside Ady's Francis Barnett. 5283 - Ray Barrett (B25) on the interesting Mick Mills "off the jig" frame, built by Jerry Minshall, now housing the Triumph B25 250cc motor which was reputedly in the last factory Triumph trials machine to leave the factory... Flywheels modified by Pete Kirby. Then owned and ridden by Bob Haines.
Ray Barrett BSA B25-Triumph TR25.
Charles Millington on the Norton period shot from Hammertight.
Mark Strong Ady Green and John Dutton.
We need to take a look at the "Firefly"..
"Just Singing in the Rain"
The little three speed Bantam singing, at full rev's, on an old fashioned climb,
Dave Jones at the helm.
While Natalie Foreman, tries to record the clean on a ink stained paper.
The bark of the big Norton singing through the damp undergrowth
A chime from the past.
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Jim's Funeral.
" The Last Section"
Hi Guys,
The service was quite informal, in keeping with Jim's requests, but very touching.
Jim arrived in his van, with an escort of circa 20 Drayton riders. One of the bikes didn't make it to the crematorium, Jim's own Villiers, the engine siezed up whilst passing through Kidderminster.
The readings featured trials quite a lot, it was a huge part of Jim's life. Interesting glimpses of Jim's past, like his pet owl when he was a lad:
He found a fledgling and took it home, when it was strong enough to fend for itself he took it back to the forest.
However the bird found its way back to Jim's parent's house and ended up living in their back garden.
Cheers - Luke
Charlie~Oo> A Wise Owl indeed.
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Hi Luke.
Thank you so much.
A fitting conclusion to Jim’s life.
We won’t say end, because his memory and what he achieved World wide lives on.
I will do the tribute and post photos onto the BMCA 2018-19 page shortly.
Nice one you have already made the grade in your New job.
Regards Charlie.
"A Picture tells a thousand words"
Jim Pickering 29th January 1955- 4th October 2018.
R.I.P.
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Tribute To Jim Pickering, by Mark Lucas
By now I am sure that most people in the classic trials bike world will know the tragic news that the man behind Drayton trials bikes has lost his long battle with cancer.
Jim Pickering was a no nonsense kind of a man who would tell you want he thought without batting an eyelid.
However if you needed any help or advice with a trials bike then you would not find a more helpful sincere person.
To loads of riders in the West Midlands not only was he the go to person for trials bikes and parts he was a great friend and a fantastic trials riding coach.
He spent most summers down his beloved Shatterford training trials riders to ride tricky twisty sections. Sitting on the side lines shouting instructions on the lines to take and when most,
People had fell off or failed the section altogether the old Bantam would spring into action and with a glint in his eye he would ride the section, like it was part of the M6.............( Perhaps not M6 or he would not get anywhere.)
It was funny talking to trials riders about Drayton in most people’s minds the company would be situated in a large industrial unit completing loads of bikes each week.
In reality all Drayton’s were built in Jims back garden in 2 large sheds.
Jayne his wife and Daughters Anita and Dawn would need to walk up to the shed to say morning to Dad, because once he started building a bike to drag him out of the shed was very difficult.
Jim would admit himself he was not a trained Engineer but somehow he had ideas to build a trials bike chassis which had all the right geometry so that it turned and steered beautifully.
When Jim started, nothing was better to fit in that chassis than the Bantam engine which he loved, and really liked to prove to people such as Mick Grant and Yrjo Vesterinen that this,
Little engine, had a big heart, and could do battle with all other trials bikes.
In later years other engines were fitted to the Drayton frame, ending up with the Triumph twin which Gary Macdonald took to victory on the 2018 pre 65 Scottish trials.
In the last few weeks while very ill, Jim was over the moon that the top 4 places in the Isle of Mann Classic trial were all Drayton’s and this was a crowning glory for him.
For me personally and for a lot of trials riders who ride Drayton’s the hole that Jim leaves will never be filled.
Our sincere condolences go out to Jayne and daughter Anita and Dawn.
Funeral arrangements are still being organised and have not been finalised yet but will be advertised.
At the moment this news is still very upsetting to most people however it was Jim’s greatest wish that Drayton continues in the future.
While these arrangements are not yet confirmed for further information please contact:
Rob Silver 07828159628
Pete Fowley 07855 685548
Jayne Pickering will continue with the business assisted by Mark Lucas.
Thanks Mark, Regards Charlie.
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BMCA trial at Clifton on Teme, 21st October 2018:
A beautiful Autumn day, misty as the morning broke, bright and clear skies burned the mist away and revealed the stunning surroundings.
Heavy dew, a touch of frost and golden leaves underfoot, soon cleared too, revealing remarkably dry and grippy conditions.
Organised and laid out by Pete Reed, Kevin Taylor and Dave ‘the cap’ Thomas, ten sections tested riders’ skills.
The clubman class rostrum places went to Jerry Munslow, Bob Davis and Steve Leyshon.
Fresh from jet-setting around the world for three weeks, Munslow rode consistently well across all the sections to secure the win. It was a close call between the top three, only three points behind the leader was second place Davis and third place Leyshon another three points adrift – an admirable performance by all riders. Proof, if need be, that its all to play for in the class!
The intermediate group enjoyed a buoyant entry, making for several groups of close competition. Top places went to Gary Hawkins, Dave Jones and Mark Strong.
Hats off to Hawkins for competing in his first trial since knee surgery only a matter of weeks ago. Some talk of ‘bionic’ and ‘6 million dollar’ was heard between riders, no doubt jealous of his great performance. We’re pleased to see him back, titanium joints and all! A five on section 8 cost Jones dearly and more than doubled his score, leaving him to settle for second place– bad luck! Continuing his run of robust performances, Strong performed solidly to finish third – one to watch perhaps?
Very tight competition in the expert class to say the least! A tie on cleans meant that Steve Hay and Simon Thornley shared first place. Making a strong return to competition, Laurence Alden took second spot with a tidy score of just two points - he’s still got it! Trial organiser Kevin Taylor was on form, but unfortunately lost the dog fight for second by a whisker.
The early sections, a group of six, were set out along a bank, at the edge of the venue, which gradually became taller and steeper from one section to the next. The mighty oaks that run along the bank were put to great use and served as perfect obstacles to negotiate. Mid way through the group, number four was perhaps an easier section, but still took a fair few points, some silly fives and even tree hugging as reported by observer Harry Brittain.
The second group was set within woodland and included perhaps several of the most troublesome sections. Observer on section 7, Graham Archer, dispensed advice that turned out to be true: “Confidence, that’s all you need”. It sounds obvious really, but sometimes you need somebody to talk some sense! Number 8 was manned by Amanda Fellows, fresh from holiday in Fuerteventura and feeling the twenty odd degree temperature difference, a steep climb with tightly linked turns demanded supreme agility. Chris Taylor on section 10 will surely have seen all manner of fives and threes across all three classes.
In a strange and unfortunate accident, clubman contender John Cope somehow got his foot trapped between the rear wheel and shock absorber during a tumble on section 3.
Thanks to the quick thinking and assistance of fellow riders, his foot was extracted without too much pain involved and no pinkies lost. Perhaps this kind of entanglement is not entirely uncommon, as clubman regular Tony Hill suffered the same at the Red Marley trial at the close of last season!
A mention must be made to the supremely well turned out Bantam of Simon Thornley. Sporting a tribute to Jim Pickering on his number board, the bike is well put together and a bit of engineering eye candy!
It would be fair to say that the standard of riding and the quality of the sections being run in the BMCA are both high. Each class has a number of contenders each week, so much so, it is hard to predict who will come out on top and intriguing at the same time. Here’s to more of the same throughout the season!
Also here are Results: Experts up to 350cc: Steve Hay (Ban) 0, Simon Thornley (Ban) 0, Laurence Alden (Ban) 2, Kevin Taylor (C15) 3, Paul Munslow (Ban) 3, Nathan Jones (BSA) 6, Chris Denney (Ban) 13, Les Richardson (Saracen) 34. Expert over 350cc: Pete Reed (Tri Twin) 36. Inters: Gary Hawkins (Bsa) 4, Dave Jones (BSA) 9, Mark Strong (Ban) 21, Ian Brittain (Royal Enfield) 22, Mike Butler (Ban) 23, Luke Stratton (Ban) 39, Charles Millington (Villiers) 41, Bob Greenhough (Ban) 44, Ernie Johnson (Cub) 50, Dave Harrison (Drayton C15) 55. Clubman: Jerry Munslow (Ban) 16, Bob Davis (Drayton Ban) 19, Stephen Leyshon (Drayton Ban) 22, John Nyons (Ban) 23, Colin Billington (Ban) 29, Tony Hill (Ban) 33, Dave Thomas (Sprite) 59, Graham Bradley (DMW) 62.
Photo Courtesy Hammertight.
I know some of the pics aren't from the day, so swap as you see fit. Although I'd like to keep the one of Pete! Apparently Neil shouted " ere, catch him, Al, catch him" %uD83D%uDE02
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Pete Reed Triumph Twin,reaching for the *Stars*.
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Photo Courtesy "Spanner".
This week saw the funeral of Jim Pickering take place.
Jim was a long term BMCA rider and friend to all who met him. Proof of this was the turn-out: with circa three hundred in attendance from literally all corners of the country: Wales, Scotland, north and south England (nearly Ireland too, but they had to pull out at the last minute). Those who knew Jim would agree that ‘one off’ was appropriate when summing him up. Jim requested to be brought to the service in his trusty van, accompanied by Drayton riders. Jim’s own Triumph twin was part of the motorcade and made its own unique contribution to the day by backfiring and then dumping oil as it was parked up! A sad loss to all, not only a friend but also one of the most influential people in classic trials – gone but not forgotten. R.I.P Jim.
Message from Al Usher (aka Hammertight) Hello Joe. I suspect not many of our members read TMX News these days… but BMCA Reports are still filed with them and this is in this week’s paper. Spanner, aka Luke Stratton, is really finding his feet in the reporting game, and also sends to the BSA Otter website.
Maybe you could include this photo on our site, in recognition of TMX News and the Otter, giving us coverage? Many thanks, Al.
( Les Richardson and his Panther, and Charles Millington and the 500T hope to bring their rigids to Buildwas… Clive knows about this and will take them into consideration when setting out the clubman sections).
Hammertight.
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The BMCA trial 28/10/2018 at Buildwas,
organised and laid out by Clive Parry, Alex Crane and Steve
Leyshon, consisted of ten varied sections designed to put the riders to the test. This time around, new ground was employed for four of the ten sections, which made for a welcome change. Although some of the more senior (or should that read experienced) riders found the longer sections more of a memory test! Also a change compared to most rider’s memories of the venue, were the remarkably dry conditions. Many had dressed for the worst, having become accustomed to a bit of a mud bath: Old hands expected to see very slippery banks and turns, with a fair bit of mud thrown in to the mix, but were greeted by rock hard ground which almost had the consistency of concrete.... the bonus being that the bikes were easy to clean afterwards of course!
Buildwas,
Making the most of the fine, dry conditions, the lads set the sections out more on the tight and twisty side than would be normal at Buildwas, in a bid to keep things interesting. It seems to have worked well: nobody managed to clean the trial, some came close though. It was another closely fought battle for top spot in all of the classes, nobody could have been said to have an easy ride.
The experts class saw five of the eight competitors score six or less, in a tightly run contest. Bringing home the medals this week Steven Hay, Kev Taylor, Nathan Jones and Laurence Alden were within a hairs width of each other to win.
Hay snatched the win on 2 marks lost, despite his Bantam playing up more than a little after a brave decision to change the carb, crank seals, gearbox seals and ignition timing in one go the night before the trial – some fine tuning required to get the bike back on form. Blotting an otherwise clean copy-book, Taylor took a three on section four, leaving him to settle for second. Joint third were Jones and Alden, both on a two and a dab (to total three points) and equal cleans – very close indeed. Worth a mention: Jones was riding (for the first time ever) his Dad’s Rigid Bantam, the slipping clutch which presented problems at Easthope has been fixed. “Great to feel the rear tyre. It reminds me of the rigid James that I rode when I started BMCA trials.” he said.
Dave Jones, Kevin Walker and Mike Butler headed up the pack in the Intermediates class. Jones rode with skill to a well-deserved win, despite taking big points on section six the quality of his riding carried him through to the win with ease. Walker finished second, showing some tidy riding on his equally tidy Cub, not far behind the leader. It is interesting to see how the top two intermediates faired on differing sections - Dave Jones cleaned section 2 and Kevin Walker dropped 8, whereas the roles were reversed on section 6 which Kevin Walker cleaned and Dave Jones dropped 8. A nasty fall on the opening lap, lead to Butler going over the handle bars - however he dusted himself down and, unflapped by the event, rode a true good’un.
The largest entry of the trial was seen in the clubman class.
(Charlie~Oo> Do most riders like the easier route?)
With so many runners in the mix, it was to be an interesting trial. A hand-full of points separated the class leaders: Dave Taylor, Jerry Munslow and Colin Billington. Enjoying a brilliant ride, Taylor clocked up only a single dab to take the title. Having to settle for second place, last week’s winner, Munslow rode admirably but the win proved just out of reach. Billington rode his impeccably prepared Bantam almost as well, to finish a creditable third. Credit and more than one admiring glance were given to John Hughes’ lovely James, looking very tidy and well put-together.
Off the back of the successful BMCA trial at Easthope, "the rigid clubman class" was run - a first at Buildwas.
The mighty Panther of Les Richardson, fettled and fighting fit, slinked around the sections as he pounced to first place. In the paddock, Les's Panther was drawing in the riders like a magnet... queuing up to "have a go, mister"! In second place was Charles Millington on the big Norton, although it is hard work compared to his usual James, Charles must enjoy riding it judging by the grin on his face! Fair play to both riders - those old thumpers take some heaving about and have steering response akin to the Titanic!
Villiers services front man, Steve Gollins, was running some of their new parts on his machine, all available off the shelf from them : a reproduction competition spec aluminium head, barrel and forged piston. The mods, to suit 9E, 32A and 37A engines, change the porting and save over 2kg. He says “the bike ran like a dream, if only I could have matched it’s performance!” better luck next time Steve!
During interview with the legendary Hammertight in the paddock, Clubman winner, Taylor gave some background on his bike. Originally built by Bill Price around 2006-2009, the frame altered again by Jim Pickering in 2014 and longer forks fitted...to help with his aged back! The swinging arm is Bantam with a "flat" to give more clearance. Standard bantam hubs. The carb is probably about 50 years old and the rear tyre same as when Dave bought the bike!
Results: Experts up to 350cc: Steven Hay (Ban)2, Kev Taylor (C15) 3, Nathan Jones (Ban) 3, Laurence Alden (Ban) 3, Christopher Poel (Bsa) 6, graham greaves (Ban) 13, Steve Gollins (Vil) 14, Mick Parkes (Ban) 20. Intermediates: Dave Jones (Bsa) 14, Kevin Walker (Cub) 18, Mike Butler (Ban) 20, Dave Pengilley (Dot) 21, Bob Greenhough (Ban) 26, Dave Harrison (C15) 29. Clubmen: Dave Taylor (Ban) 1, Jerry Munslow (Ban) 3, Colin Billington (Ban) 7, Ray Barrett (Tri) 9, Tony Hill (Ban) 10, Gordon Wright (Ban) 10, Graham Bradley (DMW) 11, John Davies (Greaves) 15, George Houghton (Ban) 18, John Hughes (Jam) 34. Rigids: Les Richardson (Panther) 11, Charles Millington (Norton) 31
Photos later.
Photos: 20181028_112932_HDR; Dave Pengilley on Al Ussher’s Ex-works DOT, 0644; John Hughes’ well presented James, 0668; Les Richardson riding his pre-unit Panther, 0677; Cubman’s winner Dave Taylor, 0738; Charles Millington, 0741; Steve Hay cleans section six, 0743; Steve Hay, 0757; Graham Greaves on section six, 0761 Graham Greaves, 0774; Villiers services front-man Steve Gollins’ James sporting reproduction competition goodies, 0777; Charles Millington muscles the bin Norton into control.
Dave Pengilley on Al Ussher’s Ex-works DOT.
Les Richardson riding his pre-unit Panther Rigid.
Steve Hay on the rebuilt Bantam.
Winner, Steve Hay cleans section six.
Charles Millington, 500T Norton.enjoying the ride, in the sunshine.
Graham Greaves on section six.
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Villiers services front-man, Steve Gollins’, James-D sporting reproduction competition goodies,
Clubman’s winner Dave Taylor, aboard the ex Bill Price Bantam"Mini-Black-Bess".
Charles Millington muscles the big Norton 500T into control.
Graham Greaves in the sunshine too.
John Hughes’ well presented Original Commando framed James,
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The Dave Jones rigid BSA Bantam.
Charles and Les chatting about "Old Irons".
"Gis-Us a ride on yer old bike mate"
More Like a "Photo Report" as well this week. Great stuff, keep the "Old Iron" coming.
Les Richardson and Nathan Jones Talk Old Bikes.
All Photos Courtesy "Spanner" and "Hammertight"
Report "Spanner" and Kev-The-Cub-Whisperer"
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BMCA trial 04th November 2018 at Knighton.
Dry and grippy conditions greeted riders at Knighton, The venue is known for being grippy (well mostly) even in the worst of weather, due to the sandy free-draining ground.
The former scrambles venue is now only graced by the rumble of motorbikes a handful of times a year when it plays host to trials. Many thanks to organiser and land owner John Jackson, assisted by Pete Reed when laying out the sections, for hosting the trial once again.
BMCA regulars know to expect that the sections will be tricky and tight when the going is (too) good at Knighton, what little they knew…. Things were a little more difficult than most had imagined, but it still made for an interesting and enjoyable challenge.
The scoreboard shows the end result, higher scores than other trials and marks dropped over all four laps, as riders strived to get their heads around the solution to the challenge that many of the sections posed.
Given the difficulty of the sections this week, riders in all classes were put through their paces and it was a tough slog for all! Credit to the top riders, keeping their heads and shining through.
Kev Taylor, Nathan Jones and Paul Munslow headed up the Expert’s class. A masterclass in trials riding given by Taylor, cleaning seven of ten sections, brought him the win. Despite wishful thinking by Jones, second place was his when the scores came in: he commented “if only I could go back to lap number one!” – his score mostly made up by points taken on the opening lap. Munslow was only slightly off the pace, a few dabs extra resulted in third place.
Top places in the Intermediate class went to Christopher Dean, Dave Jones and Mike Butler.
Dean took the lead by just one point, but a high number of cleans indicating that he took higher scores on the occasions he wasn’t clean. Close behind, Jones had to settle for second place, despite steady riding and control. Butler brought home third place with a creditable ride, scoring the best in class on some sections, a couple of other sections dragged him down.
On the podium in the Clubman class were Tony Hill, Martin McKenzie and Stephon Leyshon. Collecting another win, Hill’s skill and composure lead to a comfortable buffer. Returning after a short break from regular riding, a very creditable performance from Mckenzie bagged second place – good stuff. A valiant effort from Leyshon saw him narrowly beaten and taking third place.
The familiar favourite and signature section of the trial, the hill, didn’t fail to disappoint. More than a handful of riders were to be seen dancing and pirouetting with their bikes when the rear tyre bit in a little too much!
Hopefully within a couple of weeks, riders will cease to shudder at he thought of some of the sections: On the expert route, sections four, five and eight were nigh-on impossible to crack and just to take a three could be a relief! The easy route also had its share of high scoring sections: six and ten being the worst. Knighton is all over now for a few months, so sleep easy….. until next time!
Experts: Kev Taylor (BSA) 10, Nathan Jones (BSA) 11, Paul Munslow (Ban) 15, Steve Gollins (VIL) 27, Mick Parkes (Ban) 35, Jim Teague (C15) 37, Laurence Alden (Ban) 39, Gary Hawkins (BSA) 49, Les Richardson (Saracen) 76
Expert over 350cc: Peter Reed (TRI) 82.
Intermediates: Christopher Dean (BSA) 45, Dave Jones (BSA) 46, Mike Butler (Ban) 63, Kevin Walker (Cub) 68, Bob Greenhough (Ban) 74, Dave Thomas (Ari) 83, Luke Stratton (Ban) 89.
Clubman: Tony Hill (Ban) 26, Martin Mackenzie (Ban) 39, Stephen Leyshon (Ban) 42, John Nyons (Ban) 44, John Duncombe (Bsa) 44, Steve Haines (Cub) 53, John Cope (Ban) 58, Andy Hunt (Villiers) 62, Ray Barrett (Tri) 75, Ian Walters (Cotton) 82, John Davies (Greeves) 86, Graham Bradley (Dmw) 87.
Photos Courtesy Natalie Forman
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Clubman contender Munslow pre-tumble, which cost him a foot peg and an early bath,
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Jones and Bradley discuss carbs – the DMW has just been treated to a shiny new AMAL,
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Inter runner up.Dave Jones, BSA C15.
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Experts winner Taylor midway through his masterclass,
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Bulter holds post-trial court (you don’t want to know the story he was telling!),
A couple more later .
Photo Courtesy Dave Thomas.
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Pete Reed mid-way through the killer turn on section.
Dave Thomas Image.
. And then on the floor (he was fine)!
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20/11/2018
This weeks Wilderley report later, here are the results..
Nathan Jones and Steve Hay keep up the battle for the top position in the Expert class, and the continuing fight keeps the position on tenterhooks for what will happen in the later trials, as the winter draws in.......
The intermediate class again looks like a class fought effort by the top five or six in the group, and a result can never be forecast....
And almost the same in the clubmans class as positions remain very close... and the only conclusion is that the competitors that attend every trial in the calender, therefore having more practice tend to come to the top of the bunch.....
BMCA Trial at Wilderly 18/11/2018,
Organised and laid out by Nigel Houlston and John Hughes, saw the return to the saddle, so to speak, of the BMCA regulars after a week off. The ever-boggy paddock made for grave expectations of the conditions in the sections, the riders however soon realised it wasn’t all that bad once the trial was underway. The thick blanket of leaves, so dense that the yellow clubman route flags were easily lost, made riding during the first lap quite entertaining – you never knew where the grip was or was not to be found!
In pre-trials paddock talk, inters regular Dave, running Al Usshers D.O.T, reminisced about riding the venue in his schoolboy days, although he isn’t the eldest of riders, it illustrates the long-standing history of venue.
The clubman class was well represented this week as ever, with fifteen riders competing. Tony Hill, Andy Hunt and John Duncombe made up the top three places. Hill rode with confidence to take first place, tidy riding throughout the trial gave him a four-point buffer from second place. Hunt showed his calibre with a class-leading score on section two and very creditable scores over the rest. Duncombe was close behind, in third place, with class leading scores on section four – one of the hardest sections of the trial.
Intermediates regulars Joe Owen, Dave Jones and Kevin Walker showed the men from the boys with sub-twenty scores.
Taking a break from larking about on yachts, Owen came back strong and took a storming victory, his scores on section seven unequalled in the class. Jones and Walker duked it out for second place, both on nineteen: it came down to most cleans which put Jones in second and Walker third – very close competition!
The experts class podium places went to Nathan Jones, Steve Hay and Nigel Randall, all on low scores but credit to the layout, not quite clean. Jones brought home the win, near faultless riding, two dabs in total. Hay performed admirably well too, but a couple more stray dabs cost him the title this week. Third place went to Randall, with a handful more points.
An interesting couple of changes to the layout of the sections were made: a change to the running order put the first section mid-way through the normal arrangement. And an extra section of stream utilised in place of the traditional run across the boggy field - a nice change.
And continuing the change from normal, the route of the trial ran in reverse from section six onward, which made for a refreshing diferance.
Section six, manned by now seasoned expert observing aficionados Pat and Harry Britain, was much more intimidating this time as it was run downhill – unusual for a stream section.
Section seven proved to be a real stumbling block for many on the expert route. It was a good job that the ground was so grippy, given the tight nature of the section – if it had been slippery, we may have seen three and fives across the board.
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Expert class: Nathan Jones (Bsa), Steven Hay (Bsa), Nigel Randall (Bsa), Paul Munslow (Bsa), Jim Teague (Ban), Kev Taylor (C15), Mick Parkes (Ban), Paul Howells (Ban), Les Richardson (Saracen)
Experts over 350cc: PETER REED (TRIUMPH)
Intermediate Class: Joe Owen (Bsa), Dave Jones (Bsa), Kevin Walker (Cub), Mike Butler (Ban), Dave Pengilley (Dot), Bob Greenhough (Ban), Luke Stratton (Ban).
Clubman Class: Tony Hill (Ban), Andy Hunt (Villiers), John Duncombe (Bsa), John Cope (Ban), Daniel Hall (Cub), Graham Bradley (DMW), Gordon Wright (Bsa), Jerry Munslow (Bsa), John Davies (Gre), Ray Barrett (Triumph), Ian Brittain (Royal Enfield), George Houghton (Ban), Paul Guise (Cub), Ian Walters (Cotton)
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Photos, credit Dave Thomas: 4008; Dave Pengilley stretching the DOTs legs, 4015 inters class runner up Jones makes a dash across the boggy section ten, 4022; Clubman class third place Duncombe dropping in to section six.
Dave Pengilley aboard the Al Ussher D.O.T.
Dave Jones steams ahead riding the Mills Replica BSA....
John Duncombe ,Section six start,testing the front brake on the Drayton C15.......
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Many thanks to Nigel Houlston and John Hughes for laying out the sections and to observers – Chris Taylor, Ken Taylor, Martin Pengilley, Neil Robertton, Mark Lucas, Harry Brittain, John Hughes, Amanda Fellows, Sue Jones and Malcolm Holden.
NEXT BMCA TRIAL SUNDAY 25th NOVEMBER 2018. JOE OWEN. Park Farm, Ombersley WR9 0EX. S.P. Droitwich. M5 Junction 6. Follow A449, Kidderminster, signposted from next island.
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We Must congatulate Al Ussher on his third place in the Moto-Photo competition.
Kevin Taylor, star in the photo. Our Photographer Al Usser, and New reporter Luke...
More on this story later.......
Ombersley Trial 25/11/2018
This week’s trial, number 11 on the calendar, was at Park Farm, Ombersley. The impressive clay shooting venue owned by past AMCA classic scrambler Phil Sanders, who now regularly represents GB and England with his gun! Proceedings were organised and laid out by Joe Owen, with the able help of Andy Hunt, Kevin Walker and Gary Hawkins. The familiar banks of Park Farm lived up to their reputation: steep and steeper! Despite it being late Autumn the continued dry weather resulted in a good level of grip. The sections were set out perhaps on the tricky side compared to previous years, but still making the most of the available ground. Perhaps the biggest threat to the competitors was the abundant leaf mould, which made for very loose going in patches. The leaves for the most part scrubbed away within a couple of laps, but stubbornly stayed put on the infamous hill climb section - keeping things interesting all the way through! Observer Neil Robberton’s pencil needed to be pretty sharp.
The long bank alongside the river Severn was the setting for the sections. A good variety of layouts ensure that no two were the same. Each combining challenges that put riders’ skills through a thorough workout; some were gentle looking affairs, with traversing skills put to the test, others more severe looking and challenging – including the big hill climb and the notorious section at the end of the bank.
Nathan Jones, Kev Taylor and Mick Parkes headed up the expert class. Jones fell just shy of a clean sheet with a not-too-shabby two points. One lost on section 4, and one on the tricky section 9, where a tight rooted turn claimed many a dab. Second place, Taylor, was a little way behind scoring eight. Parkes took third place with a score of eleven – some ten points clear of the rest of the pack.
In the intermediate class, Kev Walker, Dave Jones and Dave Thomas shone through with scores some way ahead of the rest of the field. Walker finished in first by a comfortable margin, his Cub purring to victory. Tidy riding by Jones put him in second place. Finding his form once again, Thomas put in an admirable performance on the big Ariel, finishing in third.
Clubman class top runners were Tony Hill, Steve Leyshon and Ray Barrett. Hill is fast becoming a regular at the top of the table. Continued good riding on the Bantam saw him finish in first on eight points. Just a few points behind, and despite a spectacular dismount on the hill, second place went to Leyshon. Chasing him up, only three points adrift, Barrett brought the B25 home for third spot.
Results:
Expert Class; Nathan Jones (BSA) 2, Kev Taylor (C15) 8, Mick Parkes (Ban) 11, Paul Munslow (BSA), Graham Greaves (Ban)
Expert Over 350; Peter Reed (Tri) 37.
Intermediate; Kevin Walker (Cub) 10, Dave Jones (BSA) 17, Dave Thomas (Ari) 27, Ian Brittain (RE) 34, Mike Butler (Ban), Luke Stratton (Ban) 41, John Colclough (James) 44, Charles Millington (James) 48, Mark Strong (Ban) 50.
Clubman; Tony Hill (Ban) 8, Stephen Leyshon (Ban) 14, Ray Barrett (Tri) 17, Martin Mackenzie (Ban) 24, Jerry Munslow (Ban) 24, Gordon Wright (Ban) 29, Steve Haines (Cub) 31, Graham Bradley (DMW).
Photos courtesy Dave Taylor.....
Mike Butler picking up the pieces after a five......
Nathan Jones, on adverse camber....
Mamble 02.12.2018
By Spanner | Dec 3, 2018
Another amble at Mamble, 28 riders entered the BMCA trial on 02/12/2018. Notorious for being muddy at the best of times, and after a week of very inclement weather, course plotters Kevin Walker, Mick Parkes and Steve Leyshon ensured that the conditions were taken into account.
The steep banks and stream that were part of the former scrambles track, were utilised to great effect, making for ten varied and technically challenging sections. A handful of well thought out section changes compared to previous events kept things fresh.
In the Expert class, on only 2 marks lost, Kev Taylor (BSA C15) had a convincing win over Greeves mounted Alan Nicklin who, considering his 6-month layoff, had a good ride on 3 marks lost. Steve Hay was a close third on 4. All three riders just needing single dabs to tackle some of the trickier sections on the harder route.
In the Intermediates, Bob Greenhough had a very good ride on 14 marks to take the top spot from Kevin Walker who was three marks further adrift on 17. Mark Strong took third place on 35. Section 5 – observed by Neil Roberton – proved to be the trickiest for the intermediates with an awkward turn and climb in the stream over some rockery.
In the Clubman class, Tony Hill ran out the winner on 12 marks lost, with Steve Leyshon second on 19 – still kicking himself for going the wrong way on section 7!! Colin Billington was only one mark away to take 3rd place. Section 8 – the famous Mamble rocky stream section – proved to be the biggest mark taker for the Clubmen.
Luckily for the riders, the forecast showers kept away all morning, so the grip held (mostly) and all the riders finished with a smile on their faces!
A mention must go to Pete Reed, his immaculate Triumph twin suffered a nasty dented tank as a result of a tumble on Neil Roberton’s section 5. In Pete’s words “I feel bad for the bike, I’ve had it since it were a little ‘un.” Bad luck Pete. Hopefully the bike will be fully fettled and back to its shiny glory soon!
The spirit of trials, “what’s that?” you may say. You can’t quite put your finger on it but key ingredients are: determination, resolve and sheer bloody stubbornness! Whatever it is, it was evident this week in many ways: A minute’s silence in respect for Al Ussher, a constant at BMCA fixtures right until the last. He sadly passed away last week.
Mark Lucas unable to ride due to a mangled finger – still there to observe, and three generations of the same family (Pat, Ian and Harry Brittain) getting stuck in and enjoying themselves together.
Report: The Cub Whisperer with help from Spanner
Photos: Natalie Forman and Dave Thomas
Results:
Expert Class; Kev Taylor (C15), Alan Nicklin (Gre), Steven Hay (Cub), Mick Parkes (Ban), Nigel Randall (BSA), Paul Munslow (BSA), Steve Gollins (Vil), Joe Owen (Ban).
Expert Over 350cc Class; Peter Reed (Tri)
Intermediate Class; Bob Greenhough (Ban), Kevin Walker (Cub), Mark Strong (Ban), Luke Stratton (Ban), Charles Millington (Jam), Ian Brittain (Re), John Colclough (Jam), Dave Thomas (Ari).
Clubman Class; Tony Hill (Ban), Stephen Leyshon (Ban), Colin Billington (BSA), Andy Hunt (Vil), Ray Barrett (Tri), Steve Haines (Cub), 7 Dave Harrison (BSA), George Houghton (Ban), John Duncombe (BSA), Jerry Munslow (Ban), Graham Bradley (DMW).
Three Generations of trials riders.
Grandad Pat, young Harry, and dad Ian
Brittian......
Tony Hill Bantam....
Expert Over 350cc Pete Reed, makes that Tiger Growwwl..
Shatterford 09.12.18
by Spanner | Dec 11, 2018
Shatterford is an old favourite trials venue, popular for club trials and practice. Most weeks you’ll find a handful of BMCA regulars larking around one afternoon, whilst the rest of us toil away – it’s alright for some! But, you can never let people’s familiarity with the venue sway your expectations of the results, particularly at this time of year. The ground is very sensitive to the weather and reacts readily to a drop or two of rain. Well aware of the potential mud-bath, Shatterford regulars Mark Lucas and Jim Teague plotted a sensible set of sections, with a good level of challenge, that would have tolerated a bit of the wet stuff had the worst happened.
Expert class regulars fought it out in close competition: Kevin Hall winning with a near perfect score of only one mark lost, Nathan Jones only one behind. Third place was tied, on six with equal cleans, between Kev Taylor and Paul Howells. In the rest of the class, Lawrence Alden and Bill Woodcock were both so close but so far away from the podium – maybe next time lads! Section nine proved to be the downfall of many, only Taylor able to clean it every lap.
Intermediate class stalwarts Mike butler, John Colcough and Mark strong took top honours. Quality riding from Butler, the only man in the class to clean section ten, put him in the lead by seven marks. Colclough snatched second place, by one, from Strong – a good performance by both. Again section nine proved to be the bane of the trial for the inters, with section ten taking a fair few marks too.
Clubman class was another tightly contested group, low scores at the top of the tree. Tony Hill, Gordon Wright and Dave Taylor the top finishers. Continued solid riding from Hill won the trial, a single mark blotting his score card. Wright put in an admirable performance, finishing three behind the winner and three ahead of third placed Taylor.
The bright but changeable skies at the start of the trial turned to heavy cloud and a nippy wind. Feeling the chill on section 7, Observer extraordinaire Malcolm Holden and grounded rider Stratton mulled over methods of keeping warm, including heated jackets etc. Perhaps a top tip from our newest regular observer Harry Brittain may help: Two pairs of socks, two pairs of trousers, three jumpers and a coat does the trick! Brittain says he was warm and toasty thanks to this winning combination – surprisingly he was still able to spring about his section with agility despite wearing his own weight in clothes!
Two non-starters and a lost car key – it has the makings of a bad joke! Well, there was a funny ending you could say: spectator Roy Baxter lost his car keys and after a fruitless search, post-trial, caught a lift home only to then discover the missing keys inside his jacket! The non-starters: Luke Stratton and newcomer Daniel Hall – both unable to run a single section due to mechanical gremlins. The former traced the fault shortly after returning home: a dodgy spark plug cap – at least it was a quick fix. Hopefully Hall has the same luck, however may have his work cut-out: a suspect carb, dismounting chain and shocks suffering air-lock.
Although trials was originally a competition to test the capabilities and reliability of machines, we now know what the bikes can and can’t do, perhaps the ones being put through their paces are the people. Tireless organisers, observers, club administrators make it possible for riders to enjoy themselves. It is heartening to see so many people turn up week in week out no matter what hand they’ve been dealt – trial on!
Results:
Expert class: Kevin Hall (Cub) 1, Nathan Jones (BSA) 2, Kev Taylor (C15) 6, Paul Howells (Ban) 6, Laurence Alden (Ban) 6, Bill Woodcock (Ban) 7.
Expert over 350cc: Peter Reed (Tri) 28.
Intermediate class: Mike Butler (Ban) 1, John Colclough (Ban) 17, Mark Strong (Ban) 18, Bob Greenhough (Ban) 19, Kevin Walker (CUB) 21.
Clubman class: Tony Hill (Ban) 1, 2 Gordon Wright (Ban) 4, Dave Taylor (BSA) 7, Dave Harrison (BSA) 8, Stephen Leyshon (Ban) 9
BMCA TRIAL SUNDAY 9th December 2018 at Shatterford
Pos Class
Expert.......
1 KEVIN HALL CUB 1A
2 NATHAN JONES BSA 2A
3 KEV TAYLOR C15 3A
4 PAUL HOWELLS BAN 4A
5 LAURENCE ALDEN BAN 5A
6 BILL WOODCOCK BAN 6A
7 LES RICHARDSON BSA 7A
8 GARY HAWKINS BSA 8A
9 JOE OWEN BAN 9A
11 GRAHAM GREAVES BAN 10A
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Expert over 350.......
Pos Class 10 PETER REED TRI 1B
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Class Intermediates.......
1 MIKE BUTLER BAN 1C
2 JOHN COLCLOUGH BAN 2C
3 MARK STRONG BAN 3C
4 BOB GREENHOUGH BAN 4C
5 KEVIN WALKER CUB 5C
6 DAVE JONES BSA 6C
7 CLIVE PARRY BAN 7C
8 DAVE THOMAS ARI 8C
9 IAN BRITTAIN RE 9C
- ~~~~~~~
Class Clubman.......
2 GORDON WRIGHT BAN
3 DAVE TAYLOR BSA
4 DAVE HARRISON BSA
5 STEPHEN LEYSHON BAN
6 JOHN NYONS BAN
7 MARTIN MACKENZIE BAN
8 JERRY MUNSLOW BAN
9 COLIN BILLINGTON BSA
10 STEVE HAINES CUB
11 RAY BARRETT TRI
12 GEORGE HOUGHTON BAN
13 JOHN COPE BSA
ANDY HUNT VIL
Many thanks to Mark Lucas, Jim Teague for laying out the sections and to observers – Neil Roberton,m Malcolm Holden, Jim Teague, Sue Jones, Chris Taylor, Ken Taylor, Martin Taylor, Harry Brittain and Mark Lucas.
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NEXT BMCA TRIAL SUNDAY 16th DECEMBER 2018 - Graham Archer. Victory 40 Moto Parc on the B4100 nr Ashorne Warwickshire. From North on the M40 exit left at jnc 13 on to B4100 venue is 1⁄2 mile from jnc on left. Travelling south
on M40 use exit 14 (only single exit) SO @ small traffic island take 3rd exit to Gaydon on A452 cross motorway (jnc 13) onto B4100 venue 1⁄2 mile on left.
Travelling east or west use B4455 Fosse Way where it crosses the B4100 (traffic island) turn north west venue 2 miles on right side of B4100.
Nearest post code is CV33 9QL.
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Leamington Victory 16.12.2018
by Spanner | Dec 18, 2018
BMCA trial 16/12/2018 at Victory 40 Moto Park. Leamington Victory Motorcycle club kindly hosted this week’s BMCA trial. It’s a relatively new venue in the line-up, added to the calendar after it was first used by BMCA last year. That visit was a somewhat different affair due to the four or more inches of snow that covered the ground. None of the white stuff was evident this time around – thankfully! Many thanks to Alan Halford, Graham Archer, Alan Borton and Ernie Johnson for laying out the sections – good work chaps!
Although in the middle of a flat field, there is still plenty of terrain to put riders to the test. The Leamington Victory club have a long history in trials and they have thoughtfully landscaped the ground to provide a number of challenges. A long culvert accommodated the first half of the sections, with steep banks and some rocks and logs to mount along the way. Things got slippery from the off and competitors’ mud riding skills were certainly tested. The second half of the sections were set out in a number of well-thought-out individual/standalone features. Here the riders sheer grit and determination got put through the mill. Some water came in to play on section six, with most riders staying right side-up but Peter Archer took a dunk during the opening lap.
Well done to all the entrants; it certainly was a tough one. Unfortunately, a total of five riders had to drop out for one reason or another. Being a bit of a tough trial, the scores were a little higher than normal, although Steve Hay did manage to finish on single figures, whilst the rest were considerably higher.
The Clubman class leaders this week were Steve Haines, Dave Harrison and Tony Hill. Haines solid riding saw him perform best in class on section four and consistently better than the rest. Harrison was on good form. His scores on section two were untouchable by the rest of the class. A nasty fall on section one was an early set-back for Hill, picking up a nasty gash to his leg in the process. To his credit he stuck at it and was not far behind his contemporaries. The big point taking sections were one and six, typically accounting for about 50% of the scores.
Intermediate class top places went to Scott Partridge, Luke Stratton and Kevin Walker. A blinding performance from Partridge put him comfortably in the lead by forty-seven points. Ignition problems that prevented him from competing last week now fixed, Stratton came in thirty-one points in front of third place Walker. Certainly, some of the expert route sections proved to be do-able, but troublesome this week were sections two, five and eight.
Steve Hay, Paul Howells and Bill Woodcock took the honours in the Expert class. Hay never ceases to impress with his low scores, but this week’s results clearly shows his calibre. A close battle between Howells and Woodcock came down to just two points with superb riding by both putting them nearly thirty points clear of the rest of the group. Despite taking a number of tumbles whilst wrestling with the mighty Triumph, Pete Reed showed resilience and came in with a very creditable score.
Report: Spanner – Pics: Colin Bullock, CJB Photographic
Results:
Expert class: Steven Hay (Cub) 5, Paul Howells (Ban) 34, Bill Woodcock (Ban) 36, Peter Archer (BSA) 64, Giles Hixon (FB) 133
Expert over 350cc class: Peter Reed (TRI) 109
Intermediate class: Scott Partridge (Cub) 16, Luke Stratton (Ban) 63, Kevin Walker (Cub) 94, Dave Thomas (Ari) 98
Clubman class: Steve Haines (Cub) 40, Dave Harrison (BSA) 45, Tony Hill (Ban) 49, George Houghton (BSA) 65, Ray Barrett (Tri) 71
Pete Reed on the 500 twin climbs the rock at section 10
Bill Woodcock, section 8 on the Bantam
Mick Parkes, section 8 on the Bantam
Steve Hay in a class of his own. Section 7
Next trial 6th January 2019...
Sorry Guy's, got there too late ,at two minuets past one o'clock, you had loaded up ready for home...I had had a busy morning doing this website....
More next week.
Coney Green 06.01. 2019
by Spanner | Jan 8, 2019
A green light for fun: Smiling faces all round and the occasional whisper of banter drifting on the breeze of a fair January Sunday were the order of the day. Thanks to Steve Jones and Mick Parkes for putting on a great trial. The riders weren’t only the usual bunch this week: we had some new faces and those of old trials friends too – all very welcome. A special mention must go to one die hard competitor, new to BMCA, Colwyn Darlow on a Norton. He travelled from Lincolnshire to the trial taking two and three quarter hours each way – Keen or what!!
High spirits were aplenty amongst competitors, observers and spectators – was it the relief of getting out of the house to burn off some of the Christmas indulgences or that for once the gods had smiled upon us and provided dry conditions – we’ll never know! The going was good and the laying out proved to hit the mark, an even spread of scores across the classes proved testament to the combination: cleans through to mid twenties on the whole – an indicator of ideal level of difficulty.
Experts class leaders were Steve Hay, Ben Millinchap, and Nathan Jones. It was close between the two top places, Hay took the win on one point versus Millinchap’s two. Jones managed to pull third place out of the bag despite “not feeling on form”. The lion’ share of the points was taken on section six, with nobody able to clean it.
Pete Reed, expert over 350 class, enjoyed the trial and beat some of his contemporaries who ride more nimble machines “great trial, great setting out – the lads should be proud”.
Intermediate class top places went to Jim Teague, Ian Brittain and Scott Partridge. In a league of his own, Teague took the victory for zero points. Continuing his good form, Brittain finished on a very creditable eight points – good work, maybe expert’s class is calling? Partridge, just off the pace on twelve points took third spot – but still a great result.
Clubman class leaders were Tony Hill, Colwyn Darlow and Colin Billington. Regular class leader Hill fended off the competition and finished on one point. Just a hairs width between them saw Darlow trump Billington to second place.
Thanks to All observers for standing in the cold again.......
Photos to follow later.
Shatterford 13.01.2019
by Spanner | Jan 14, 2019
Report by: The Cub Whisperer
The regular BMCA crew plus a number of additional faces turned up at Shatterford for the second event of 2019 calendar.
Indeed, the entry of 43 was the largest to be seen for quite some time which is very encouraging, the addition of new riders very welcome. With up to sixteen riders per class, competitors had to ‘bring their A-game’ to make it into the top spots. What was unusual, was the state of the venue. Shatterford is renowned for being muddy, with grip at a premium – but on the day, the riding was exceptional given the dry conditions, and the good work of section plotters Mark Lucas and Les Richardson, who set out the sections suitably tight.
Clubman class saw a great entry of fifteen riders and a variety of machinery: the ubiquitous Bantam made up less than half the field, a good few Triumphs, C15s, a Cotton and a DMW – great stuff!
Dave Taylor, Colin Billington and Martin Mckenzie finished at the front of the field. Taylor outshone the rest with one single five blotting his scoresheet – so close but so far! Bilington and Mckenzie fought it out for second place with only single point difference between them.
A good entry in the Intermediate class, again saw the plucky Bantam in the minority and overruled by four stroke machines. Scott Partridge, Chris Poel and Mark Lucas made up the top of the table. Partridge was not quite able to finish clean, three points only though! Poel just edged in front of Lucas by one point, both riders beat each other on some sections and vice-versa.
In the expert class over 350cc, Pete Reed wrestled the big Triumph twin to a very creditable finish, not far off the pace of his contemporaries on more nimble machines.
Expert class was the leader in terms of entry, sixteen riders in total.
A broad spectrum of results recorded, from one point through to mid-forties.
So tight were the scores, that five riders made up the top three places: Nigel Randall and Nathan Jones tied on equal cleans and one point took first place. Second place was shared by Kev Taylor and Ben Millichap both on two points and equal cleans. Steve Hay took sixth place as a result of a single five – we can only wonder what could have been. You couldn’t find tighter competition!
This week, once again, we had a good spread of points across all the classes, with nobody getting an easy ride, but many happy riders at the same time. We couldn’t do it without the passion that the organisers, helpers, observers and competitors put in – so well done all on another brilliant trial.
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We Are Back...
Sorry for the break but been busy and had computer problems...
Photos Courtesy Tony Broom...
Our intrepid Reporter Luke Stratton aboard his Rob Homer BSA Bantam...
The BMCA trial on 14.04.2019, organised and marked out by John Colclough was the second BMCA trip to Bedlam this year, and what a cracking trial it was. All sections were either in or around the stream. Great section plotting by John Colclough, and a bright and brisk morning to boot!
You probably couldn’t have asked for better weather: early morning mist burnt off quickly to give cool but sunny conditions – perfect for riding, although the observers all kept themselves well wrapped up! Continued fair weather had left the ground very dry, yet the stream was in healthy full flow, with water running down the rocky gully adjacent to the bridge.
Thirty keen riders headed up the stream: six In the expert class, nine Intermediates, and fifteen clubmen. BMCA regulars were joined by six riders hailing from Wales, plus the lesser spotted Ian ‘Bully’ Bullock, and Villiers supremo, Steve Gollins – great to see riders both old and new!
Riders were caught slightly off guard on discovering Malcolm Holden manning section four. Throwing caution to the wind, he fancied a change of scenery and handed his usual section (No. 7) over to Harry Brittain. Section 7 saw plenty of action and Harry enjoyed covering the section. He stated post-trial that his dad’s silly five was a particular highlight!
Expert class scores ran from clean through to the twenties with stiff competition throughout. Podium places went to Steven Hay, Steve Gollins and Laurence Alden. Hay gave a masterclass in classic trials, once again finishing clean – how does he do it?! long-time absentee Gollins, finished second on ten, showing he’s in fine form for the upcoming Classic Scottish 2 day. Third place went to Alden, continuing his recent good performances, on twenty-two marks lost!
The Inter class was hotly contended with a good handful of riders jostling for the top spots. In the end Joe Owen, Nigel Pearce and Dave Jones led the pack. Barring section ten, Owen only picked up a single point on any other section – the only man in the class to record such a clean sheet. Pearce and Jones were pretty closely matched, but Pearce’s more consistent riding just edged him into second by two points. Two graduates from Clubman class deserve a mention: Martin Mackenzie and Tony Hill, quality riding by both saw them firmly in-the-mix – well done lads, keep it up!
The Clubman class was once again buoyant, fourteen entries in total and close competition throughout. New faces Mark Evans, Nigel Smith and Stuart Evans took the podium places. Evans (Mark) dropped a rare dab here and there to finish on six points lost. Smith almost managed to keep pace, but section eight cost him dearly. Evans (Stuart) took a well-deserved third place with a largely tidy trial, a couple of unfortunate (aren’t they all) fives upped his total to eighteen.
Guest photographer Tony Broom kindly provided many of this week’s shots. Thanks Tony and apologies for ambushing you whilst you were quietly enjoying the trial! Top shots, we’re sure all would agree!
Three Wise Monkeys and Steve Gollings. James....
BSA Bantam...
Ian Britton Royal Enfield...
More Photos Later....
