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COURSE UPDATE: Merida Brass Monkeys - Round 2 - MONDAY 28th December

by Jane Lucas / Paul Howard, 27 Dec 09.

Venue and Course Update 27 Dec, 5pm: All the snow and ice has now melted so vehicle access to the venue is fine, with tarmac roads within the venue for easy access to the parking areas. The course has been reduced a little in length to just under 6 miles due to recent logging activity which has compromised some of the tracks we were due to use. So you can go round and ride more laps! There are a couple of short sections with standing water and one fantastic watersplash. Joolze take note! But mud tyres are definitely not needed as you'll find the trails in great condition. I'd suggest something like a 2.1 Nobby Nic or even Racing Ralph is ideal; for control on the front, and some bite on the rear to maintain traction up the climbs.

A word of caution - do wrap up warm - the top of the Ranges are quite exposed and there is a chill wind blowing. To warm up post race we highly recommend dropping into the Swan Pub at the canal bridge. They serve a great range of very good food and have 'proper ale', I know we'll be in there! See you on the course.
P.s. Entry has now closed, there is NO ENTRY on the day.

As we approach Christmas we wanted to remind you about Round 2 of the Merida Brass Monkeys Enduro Series which is just after Christmas on the Bank Holiday Monday 28th December at Ash Common Ranges, Ash (nearest postcode GU12 5EU). This is a great chance to ride in a very limited access live firing area, where we are again working in collaboration with the Army, supported by some amazing sponsors, including Merida Bikes.

We all know that Endurance racing gives all riders a chance to shine. A good strategy, careful pacing and a little pre-event preparation will always give you a satisfying result, so race to win or race to finish, either way any level of rider regardless of fitness can enjoy these events. There are 4, 2 and 1 hour age related time categories to choose from based on a 6-7 mile lap. Many of you have already gathered Series points, but there are plenty more up for grabs this time. There will be Podium presentations on the day plus some cracking spot prizes and if you won a trophy at the first round and didn’t collect it, it will be waiting for you at this round.

This open heath land venue has all the features that we know you expect from us, like fast flowing single track interspersed with fire track and some longer climbs than at round 1. The highest point of the Ranges offers far reaching views to Guildford and beyond, where Canary Wharf can be seen on a good clear day. So when you're riding don't just look at the wheel in front, instead look up and enjoy the scenery! Our experienced team will be on hand with all the usual facilities; computerised chip race timing, full running results with position and time, commentary, photographer, Merida Bikes stand, trade stands, refreshments, toilet block, water, bike washing, paramedic medical cover and ambulance, radio linked mobile and static marshals and plenty of hardstanding parking.

The event is already well over half full and the closing date will be when entries reach 400 or at 17:00 on Sunday 27th December whichever comes sooner. As before, please bring your MBSA receipt of entry with you in case of any queries. THERE WILL BE ABSOLUTELY NO ENTRY ON THE DAY. There are plenty of vantage points with great views for safe spectating too, plus a great pub (The Swan) within 2 minutes walking distance so why not bring along your family and friends too.

For further details and ONLINE ENTRY please go to www.meridabrassmonkeys.com. Have a wonderful Christmas.