The Huxster MTB Relay was held at McLeans Island Forest Park on March 31st. 28 riders from CSKI participated in the race, with the aim of trying to complete as many laps as possible around a modified course in 2 hours. Students could opt to ride the event solo or take turns riding laps with a buddy.
The race packs at the registration table included electronic timing transponders, which were attached to limbs or bike parts, race number plates and cable ties. But there was also a large amount of prizes, medals and merchandise bling that caught the eye, too. Many of our riders were going to be heading home afterwards with these awards!
The Huxster Relay had not been held in Term 1 for a few years. Often the transitioning seasonal weather of March brought with it unpredictable storms. The conditions on the day were grey and a smattering of drizzle with cool southerly winds made the race a long sleeve affair. Full credit to the parents and caregivers who supported our team. Hot coffees kept the adults from turning too blue.
Our riders hit the starting lap with fine pace and utilised the wider sections of 4WD roads along the storm banks and around the course to jump ahead of rival schools. They whizzed through the winding single-track areas with fine lines and cornering technique. Constant pedalling along variable terrain in swirly wind takes its toll but our riders found a cadence that outpaced many in the field.
As the timer reached its 2 hour limit, our riders spent all their reserves on their final laps, fighting for placings, personal bests and the accolades that would follow. Glorious Gabe won the boys individual race by 1 minute over his rivals. Impactful Isla smashed the girls individual by lapping her competition. Mighty Maisie and Speedy Sophia won the girls team title by nearly 2 minutes. Placing medals for the boys teams went to Magnificent Malo and Jumping Josh Flash with the gas, gas, gas. Herculean Heath and Motoring Mathias rounded out our haul for the day.
