Just in case you’ve been living in a cave…
…or have chosen to keep your head in a box of sand, this is a quick reminder that it's the Black Run Race this weekend!
Don’t worry, I’ve read your mind and know what you’re thinking. Read on – it should answer most of your pressing questions.
It is? So can I ride this weekend?
If you're planning to ride over the weekend then Saturday is open as usual but Sunday will be closed to all riders except those racing (but everyone is very welcome to come and spectate!)
Bear in mind that Saturday will probably be exceptionally busy, both in the car park and on the Black Run, with riders practicing for the race. All other runs should be clear as normal.
I want to race! What shall I do?
You can still enter at Aston Hill from midday Saturday, but we've got fewer than 80 places at the time of writing so you'll need to get in early! All on the day entries will cost £35, and don't forget to bring either £5 (exact change) or your BCF licence to use as a deposit for your race board.
Isn't it going to be busy? Where can I park?
Because parking will be a premium over the weekend please park sensibly and don't leave your vehicle anywhere daft. The car park will be open as usual Saturday and race parking opens Saturday evening (it also doubles as race camping, for those hardy enough to spend a March night in a field!) Aston Hill car park will be shut to all but trade on Sunday.
Anyone parking on the verges or road around Aston Hill risks a police fine and being DQ'd from Sunday's race, not to mention a few highly justified choice expletives if caught by our neighbours.
Camping? In March? Really?
Yes, really. It's £5 per tent for Saturday night, but there's no loud music or open fires (disposable BBQs supported by bricks or similar are fine). Anyone caught with an open fire will be asked to leave, and anyone caught littering, trespassing or stealing wood to fuel either a fire of BBQ will be disqualified, told to leave and banned from racing at the Hill again.
Sounds harsh, but you will be damaging the Hill by doing any of the above. The field owner has had problems in the past and will stop us using his land if it continues, full stop. We want to hold races and we assume that you like racing in them, so make sure there’s no fires and BBQs are controlled, or maybe just go to the pub!
I want to know more. What shall I do?
Have a read through http://www.rideastonhill.co.uk/events/black-run-race-2011/. It will answer anything else not covered here.
(If you have more embarrassing personal questions, Chairman Pete is available on an hourly consultation basis)
Finally…
Remember the clocks are changing Saturday night! Don't go sleeping in now…
