FEET-UP FUN AT NON-S
TRIALS EVENT
T
he annual Ihatove Adventure Trial near
Nelson is billed as a sporting holiday
in the sun, but this popular, fun-filled,
internationally-attended event required
wet weather gear on the final day of
competition, after the usual sunny Friday
and Saturday which was business as usual.
It was good fun, nonetheless, and attracted
participants both from New Zealand and
overseas. The riders tested their balance, skills
and endurance across tough terrain, with the
added complication of extreme weather on
the final day of competition. ‘Feet-up’ refers
to the way in which competitors are marked
– every “dab” ( a foot touching the ground)
counts against the rider – so it’s not to be
confused with an armchair sport, far from it!
Television personality and Kiwi Rider
contributor, Peter Elliott, is a regular participant
and says that it’s a “fantastic experience”.
He elaborates, “The camaraderie, laughs,
challenges, brilliant terrain, exceptional views,
wonderful sections, incredible hills and valleys,
layout, and sheer fun of three days riding
with others from around the country and the
world, is a unique experience. It’s a chance
to catch up with people you see once a year
and enjoy the friendly sporting rivalry. Every
year I make new friends and spend three days
doing what I love with like-minded souls.”
The well-known Nelson trials riding family, the
Olivers, have organised this annual non-stop
event since 2010. Participation does not require
club membership and/or competition licences,
and the riding caters for all levels of riders.
This is a special invitation to join the team
18 KIWI RIDER