I take issue with the assumption – in every gripe in evidence - that a rider trying his best to “race” whether for podium pos or not – is automatically labeled “the culprit – who will be dealt with by CSA”, this is a most unfortunate attitude and is both unfair and offensive. The challenges (and difficulties ?) of the routes along with unmet expectations can often fuel frustrations and irritation that can lead to otherwise calm individuals “losing it” at the slightest provocation and/or for the most minor of indiscretions and/or errors/and lack of (and conversely possession of ) skill by others. For the most part the “fun Riders” level of enjoyment is directly linked to the ease (read physical fun) of the effort – conversely the “racer” (including riders who want to push boundaries and go as fast as their competencies will allow irrespective of podium dreams) is probably measuring enjoyment level on another scale entirely. Having ridden hundreds of events over the years – the vast majority of which have had no major incidents – I would venture an opinion to say that I have yet to see anyone in any of these events riding with the intention of getting hurt, wanting to hurt, seeking a scrap or spoiling anyone elses day and most minor brushes with fellow riders are usually immediately dissolved by way of apology and/or a laugh at the stupidity and ineptness associated with the issue. I have lately witnessed an increasing number of “misunderstandings” culminating in vicious arguments and some unfortunate physical retaliations – all of these have been in events with overlapping courses. The recent Trailseeker event in Cullinan was an “argument staged” in my humble opinion – the scramble up the loose rocks where staying on your feet without a bike was a bigger challenge for some than actually riding – and mixing 40/70/20 riders created yet another perfect occasion for someone having a bad day to lose it. THIS IS MOUNTAIN BIKING – not tiddlywinks - and somewhere along the way : - You will make some kind of physical contact with fellow riders – sometimes fleeting,(a rub of shoulders whilst you “hold” each other up in friendly dispute for the first round the bend). - Bikes will “clash”– (they do seem sometimes have a will of their own). - You will get dusted, soaked, mudded, scratched, cut, bumped, thirsty, hot, cold, etc…. - You will have a mechanical failure or a puncture and have to stand forlornly next to the trail in “help” mode whilst the lucky ones hurtle by unaffected. - You will inevitably get exhausted, lose concentration and end up on your butt. BUT - If you go into an event with the right frame of mind – and a bit of MTB etiquette and planned luck – you will stay out of harms way with your dignity intact and none of theses issues should spoil your day nor cause you to spoil someone elses. And best of all you will gain some skill – maybe even speed – a seed - and a whole new perspective on enjoying your ride. No offence – if you get off yr bike, stay safe and move over please – don't be the accuser or the culprit. I just wanna ride my bike !
