Wheel Wizard Downhill NPS Round 1
The Downhill NPS for 2016 organised by the Malta Mountain Biking Association and sponsored by Wheel Wizard of Birkirkara kicked off on 17 September at Wardija with a very encouraging turnout of participants registering for this exciting event. As in previous similar events the MMBA went into detailed planning to ensure a safe and zero negative impact to the site.
The initial drizzle did not discourage participants from registering and gearing up for the first run down the 700m descent. The crowd present, including curious passers-by were in for a treat of adrenalin charged riders each thundering down this technical downhill course, engaging themselves in a show of speed, nerves, concentration and expert bike handling especially when tackling loose gravel and rough terrain on the sharp bends.
Run no. 1 of 2 got underway with the ladies category – Gabriella Veneziani finishing in at 2:41:39 after encountering technical issues followed by Claudine Gatt who had to abandon her run also due to technical issues and having to wait till the second run to obtain an official qualifying time.
The men’s category proved to be a closely contested one with the first provisional four placings separated by less than 2 secs from each other − Jonathan Darmanin clocking in at 00.58.94, Mark Zammit at 00:59:43, Wayne Schembri at 01:00:23 and Ryan Darmanin at 01:00:91.
With the first run concluded, the riders were now confident, relaxed and eager to give it all in the second and final run. The ladies category re-commenced the action with both participants drastically gaining on their initial timing: Gabriella Veneziani placed first with an impressive run of 1:24:17 and Claudine Gatt concluding her impressive run to finish second at 1:24:83.
Expectations were high for the men’s’ category second run and the crowd present was not disappointed either thanks to a highly charged and exciting contest with Jonathon Darmanin placing first after capping a brilliant run in 00:58:03 followed by Mark Zammit in second at 00:58:16 and Wayne Schembri placing third at 00:58:24.
The event was concluded with the presentation of trophies by the event’s main sponsor Wheel Wizard.
The MMBA would like to take this opportunity to express its sincere thanks and appreciation to its main sponsor and all other sponsors, all its members and volunteers, service providers and ultimately the riders/participants for assisting in yet another successful and colourful event.
Next DH NPS 2 is scheduled for 15 October at 3pm at Selmun. Visit www.maltamountainbiking.org.mt and facebook page for updates.
Upcoming scheduled event – Magri Cycles MTB XC NPS 4 − 9 October at 8am − Selmun.