Samuel Asker had a full and varied weekend. A day's racing on the boards at Newport  velodrome on Saturday was  followed  by a trip to Codham, Essex on Sunday to compete in  Round 1 of the BC  National cross-country MTB Series.

The course was pretty technical and probably uniquely featured a section of BMX pump track.  Following a reconnaissance lap, Sam wasn’t too keen on racing but a second lap in the company of a couple of Eastern region mates calmed the nerves and he  decided to race.

In only his fourth ever MTB race, this was always going to be a big learning experience and Sam started off at the back of the field. The first lap was slow and tentative, but as the race progressed into the second lap, confidence grew and he began to pick up places eventually finishing 30th overall (male juvenile).  Not bad at all for the Nationals and in only his 4^th ever mountain bike race...!

The final round of the winter 5 x 3 Mountain Bike race series was held at Shouldham Warren in Norfolk on Sunday. The course was newly extended, hilly and sandy in sections. The headwind made for challenging climbs as the race progressed.

West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon Club was well represented, with 4 riders contesting the U16 race. Finishing 2^nd overall and (first Under 14) Sam Asker, who completed 4 laps in 1 hour 16 mins 53 secs.  He was followed by club mates Robin Lines (5^th), Rhys Holland-Jones (6^th), both ever present in this competition and relishing their racing, and newcomer Matt Asker (7^th), all of whom completed 3 laps.

Meanwhile, Paul Watson and Richard Holland-Jones competed in the senior race, with Paul finishing in 18^th position (5 laps in 1 hour 25 mins 45 secs) and Richard 46^th (4 laps in 1:39:53).

The latest edition of the 5 by 3 Mountain Bike racing event, designed to encourage development in grass roots racing in Suffolk & Norfolk, was held at Taverham Hall In Norfolk on the 16^th February.

A bright day and fine course greeted competitors, and continuing their fine form in the Under 16 race were West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon Club members Rob Lines, who finished a fine 3^rd, just pipping club mate Rhys Holland-Jones in 4^th.

Attempting to emulate their sons’ achievements, in the adult race saw Dick Lines finish in 33^rd and Richard Holland-Jones (36^th).

Meanwhile, and in his first foray into mountain bike racing, Sam Asker finished a commendable 2^nd in the Under 12 race on a machine borrowed from a fellow competitor.