Celebrating Sam Lawton’s Season So Far
So far this season Sam has completed the Ae Forest SDA placing 3rd in Senior Open and raced the British Downhill Series at Fort William placing an impressive 8th in Senior Open. Next up, SDA Glenshee. Sam is currently 3rd overall in the series standings for Senior Men!
3rd Overall - Senior Men
Fort William – British Downhill Series + SDA
Fort Bill is hailed as one of the most challenging tracks on the World cup downhill circuit, let alone the SDA. However, its prestige comes with a price. The infamous Fort William track features punishing top sections that lead to motorway jumps just when riders are at their most fatigued.
As one of the oldest tracks on the DH racing circuit, it winds down windswept and boggy moorland, tracing a path among the rocks before diving into the trees. Riders emerge at top speeds onto the ‘motorway’ section, tackling huge jumps and descending a steep chute into the crowds. This track is a true monster, stretching nearly 3 kilometres and notorious for pushing both bodies and bikes to their limits. Fatigue is truly the deciding factor on a track like this.
The weather was consistent on the build up to race day however for seeding and race runs the heavens opened and turned lower sections of the track into a rooty, muddy, hell-scape. Despite the incredibly challenging wood sections, littered with deep muddy ruts and greasy roots Sam crossed the line in an impressive 8th place finish in the British Downhill Series. It’s no small feat, considering the fierce competition and the unforgiving terrain.
Glenshee Ski Centre: The Next Challenge
Now, the spotlight shifts to Glenshee Ski Centre. Nestled in Braemar, Aberdeenshire, Glenshee offers a fresh challenge for Sam. The SDA Series Round 3 awaits.
The track meanders down the hill, combining fast and flowy sections with techy, and rough segments. The real challenge on this course is the weather. After a dry week there is plenty of grip between the tape. However, if the Scottish weather descends the track quickly becomes slick and rutted. Fast and exposed, round 3 will be an exciting one to watch.
“I’m looking forward to this race. I’ve never been riding at Glenshee before so excited to race a new track” – Sam Lawton
Could this be you?
Feeling inspired? Get on your bike! Bring it in for servicing at Off Beat Bikes to get it “race ready” with our professional mechanics. Then call up your mates and race them down your favourite trails. You’ll have the edge if your bike has been serviced by Off Beat Bikes!
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