Wightlink CRT member Finley Manser-Grundy Storms to Mini Downhill Victory at Forest of Dean.
Finley produced a brilliant ride at the Mini 100% Downhill race at Forest of Dean on Sunday, taking the win in the Little Rippers 7–9 category by more than seven seconds.
Racing on the technical double-black Sheepskull trail, Finley faced a challenging two-to-three-minute track packed with roots, drops, jumps and multiple line choices. After practising on Saturday, his focus was simply on staying smooth, carrying speed and putting together a clean run.
Starting ninth on his first race run, Finley caught and passed 2 riders on his way down, yet still crossed the line with the fastest time in his category by an incredible nine seconds.
Finley was seeded to go first for the second run, giving him a completely clear track. He backed up his first performance in style, going another 1.5 seconds faster and sealing the overall victory by more than 7 seconds.
It was a fantastic result and a real surprise against a strong field, particularly as Finley had spent relatively little time on his mountain bike recently.
A brilliant return to downhill racing, and a huge confidence boost on one of the most technical tracks he has raced so far.
Thanks go out to team sponsors Wightlink Isle of Wight Ferries, Island Renewables Ltd, Wight Mountain, Rapanui, KReative Studios and Adrian’s Bike Shop for their continued support.
Well done, must be all those rusks and milk, as looks like someone has placed a cycle helmet on a baby.
A future one to watch that is for sure. The island does have some talent.