Brendon Imlig
the left, and all on a angle that felt like I was going to fall over the front of the bike. I was definitely out of my comfort zone. Once into the rocks at the bottom, we had to cross a small section of rocks and then out into the quarry – I got stuck here on two out of the three laps I did that day... The final gold section was a steep shingle and rock hill out of the quarry. To me the best option looked like I should just hit it as fast as I could and try and jump the section – probably easier said than done. The first lap was a shambles, I had to have two attempts and on the second I got a lot of help to drag my bike up. On lap two I was able to carry a little more speed over the rocks and actually get myself through the section unassisted, which was a big accomplishment, so I did a burnout at the top to celebrate! I completed three laps, far from competitive, but really enjoyed the experience. The trail marking and riding was great, and between the gold sections there was flowing single trail that I really enjoyed. Next time I do a Hard X I’ ll be a lot more prepared, both with my bike and my riding!
RESULTS
Jake Whitaker
GOLD OVERALL 1. Tom Buxton( KTM 300EXC), 6 laps, 04:45:49 2. Jake Whitaker( KTM 300EXC), 6 laps, 04:50:13 3. Mackenzie Wiig( KTM 300EXC), 5 laps, 04:13:13
SILVER OVERALL 1. Beau Taylor( KTM 250XC), 5 laps, 04:20:13 2. Henry Buck( Husqvarna TE125), 4 laps, 04:04:45 3. John Luxton( KTM 300XC), 4 laps, 04:18:14
BRONZE OVERALL 1. Tim Jackson( KTM 300EXC), 3 laps, 04:04:47 2. Joel Mears( Husaberg TE125), 2 laps, 03:53:59 3. Ricky Bennebroek( KTM 250EXC), 1 lap, 01:26:10 BRONZE LADIES 1. Natasha Cairns( KTM 150XCW), 4 laps, 03:58:07 2. Janelle Walker( KTM 150XCW), 3 laps, 04:26:22 3. Lucia Oles( KTM 150XCW), 2 laps, 03:17:21 For full results head to http:// www. silverbullet. co. nz / news. php? id = 5260
34 KIWI RIDER