STAR LETTER DOG DAYS

It’s been just over three years since I started mountain biking, the main reason for which was a problematic wrist that stopped me climbing. MTB started out as an alternative to climbing, but I soon became hooked. It was also at that time that my wife and I got our first dog, Pollaidh, who joined me on trail rides the following year. We started off with some of the blues and reds at Glentress in Scotland, before progressing to the steeper, techier trails of Innerleithen. Pollaidh and I were out in all weathers, from the dusty Tweed Valley trails in the summer to the icy roots of ‘New York New York’ in the winter, throwing in some night riding to boot!

Since then, I’ve had knee surgery for a ruptured ACL and torn my meniscus, had surgery for that wrist injury, and we’ve relocated to the Highlands. I’m now 12 weeks postsurgery and, once I have the all-clear, Pollaidh and I will be exploring the local trails. We’ll soon have some company, too – our second spaniel,

Rogie. Once Rogie is old enough to join us, I’m hoping the trail-dog training will be smoother and quicker than the first time, with Pollaidh’s expertise there to set a good example and guide the way. I’ll be sure to keep up with MBUK to learn any tips and tricks to help us all on our way out on the trails!

Darren Wisniewski, via email

That’s an amazing story, Darren. To be bitten by the MTB bug and be excited to progress your skills is an awesome feeling on its own, but to be accompanied by your furry friend is better still. This Lezyne kit should help you and your trail hound(s) out and about in the Highlands this year!