Tough trial at Dursley (From Stroud News and Journal)

Tough trial at Dursley

STROUD Valley Motor Cycle Club staged a tough motorcycle trial recently at Breakheart Quarry near Dursley.

Regarded by many riders as one of the best events and venues of the year, the trial included rocky terrain and woodlands for the riders to negotiate and thanks are due to to everyone who helped mark out the course, especially local rider Ray Pekala who obtained permission from BNFL Magnox to use the land.

Ray finished a creditable third in class riding the middle route and by using this venue the Stroud Valley Motor Cycle Club and BVM Motorcycles of Stroud have donated #1000 to charities. The money will go to the Springer Trust, a charity which provides help to one-parent families.

Motorcycle trials are non-speed events, requiring precise positioning and balance to negotiate 'the section'. Riders are penalised if they stop or put their feet down while riding a section.

Most trials have three routes to choose from, varying in difficulty and males and females compete against each other.

Stroud Valley run a summer series of three easy trials to encourage beginners and novices to take part and one of these trials is held in the Cam/Coaley area.

Anyone wishing to join the club either as a rider (for a small fee) or as a helper should contact the membership secretary, Mike Thornhill on 01453 763525.