Bikers finally back in saddle

IT’S been a long, frustrating break, but after more than three months Tassie dirt bike riders finally get to “clutch off” in anger again this weekend.

Round two of the Motorcycle Enduro Riders’ Club enduro series will be held at Strickland, north of Ouse, on Sunday after the coronavirus-enforced break from the opening round in March. MERC president Leigh Kingston said many riders would be “a bit rusty”.

“We are pumped to get back out on the bikes and race this weekend,” Kingston said.

“It’ll be a case of taking it pretty steady to start with to get through the three hours.”

But not everyone has to saddle up for three hours tackling the Strickland track.

There are two-hour options for veterans, juniors and less experienced riders.

MERC committee member and rider Kylie Hannson said competitors ranged in age from nine years to more than 50.

“We have more female than male riders in some of the junior classes,” she said.

The duals class is also popular, where riding is split between two competitors.

“The duals guys have a blast,” said Russell Lyne, who often teams up with his brother, Tom. The series is a family affair for the Lynes with their father Bill one of the sweep riders — helping stuck or broken down competitors.

Robert Clapham, whose son John is one of the club’s most promising racers, said sweep riding was a good way for newcomers to see their children in action and get a feel for what enduro riding is about.

Secretary and treasurer Jon Pitt said the club still hoped to run five enduro rounds and two grass track events this season. But to get the rounds in the club needs the support of volunteers.

“We rely on volunteers for track marking and committee members to make everything run smoothly,’’ Pitt said. “The club has a great culture and a family-friendly feel about it.”

Racing for junior classes start at 9.30am and seniors and junior prolites at 11.30am.