Even as quick walk through the first few corners and down one of the many steep hilly sections gave the impression that this event could be a test of fitness and ability. It most certainly wasn’t going to be a leisurely sightseeing trip.

As mentioned, Okeford Hill is indeed a hilly place. If the course isn’t crossing cambers, then it’s gradually winding it’s way to the very bottom where riders were rewarded with a few flatter sections, a short but deep boggy crossing and a selection of sweeping turns, before making their way back to the very top – if they were lucky.

First away was the Championship class which by the end of the first lap was led by Gary Wright, with Gary Holland and Stan Watt a matter of seconds behind.

Andy Elliot

The Expert class started a minute later and Si Wakely from the PAR Homes Honda team decided to give himself a minute handicap by starting with the Experts even though he’s a Championship contender.

From lap two, it was all change at the front. Wakely had overtaken the field and in turn was being pursued by Gary Holland and Andy Scudamore. With Wakely posting lap times some 50 seconds a lap quicker than anyone else, his lead remained unchallenged for the rest of the race.

Stan Watt had a troublesome eighth lap with a time some 16 minutes more than his normally consistent 9 minute laps. With almost 2 laps lost, Watt had unfortunately lost touch with the leading group, which left Gary Holland and Gary Wright (respectively) chasing Si Wakely.

With Wakely riding into the distance, the race was comfortably his with 22 laps. Next was Gary Wright with 20, followed by Chris Brown, again with 20, who had managed to pass Gary Holland.

For the rest of the field, the first couple of laps was a little like rush hour.

Matt Guppy

With a limited entry of just 120 riders it still proved busy at a couple of sections, one of which was a short but incredibly steep drop to a track below. Surrounded by other riders and in full view of the crowd that had gathered to watch the start, I pitched myself over the handlebars at the fourth corner. Then to add to my embarrassment, my bike initially refused to start (very wise) before I was eventually on my way once again.

From the second lap, the course was an absolute joy to ride. Traffic jams were practically non-existent, thanks in part to the sterling job carried out by the course marshals. Admittedly, I did stop for a couple of very generous fuel stops, for both myself and my bike which aided my concentration levels – something which I decided was of utmost importance on the technical course. It also gave me the chance to sit down with a Banana and admire the stunning scenery – I must be getting old.

From the first hour, all but the super-fit were showing signs of fatigue. Some were displaying the "nodding donkey" with tired neck muscles struggling to support the weight of both head and crash helmet. Some were grateful to see friends or fellow riders conveniently placed for a quick break and a chat. And some, like me, found the temptation of the Burger Van all too much. Double Cheese anyone?

For me, it was a cracking day. Good weather and great track – if only I was fitter and had managed to stay on the bike a little more, but that’s something I can (hopefully) work towards.

Steve Coo

"The course was a mixture of extremely steep hills through tight woodland, with fast flowing fields and a bog to make it a little interesting.
 The course was new to me and I found it very rewarding, trying to push hard on new tracks that I didn't know, plus I’d handicapped myself by starting a minute behind the rest of the Championship field. I had to push hard to catch the guys in front, but managed to catch the leader by the second lap despite having difficulties with my front brake on the first lap.

I was only using a small fuel tank, so pitting every hour didn't make things easy but I managed to pull a fair lead by my first fuel stop. Then it was a matter of concentrating on pushing hard in readiness for the British Championship this weekend.

The course was not only enjoyable to ride, but was also good training due to the hills that needed a lot of care, plus the bottom of the course that had nice flowing corners.

I must say well done to the people who laid the course out!"

Championship: 1^st Si Wakely, 2^nd Gary Wright, 3^rd Gary Holland.

Expert: 1^st Chris Brown, 2^nd Andy Scudamore, 3^rd Bradley King.

E1 Clubman: 1^st Dave Nuttall, 2^nd Paul Vincent, 3^rd Kelvin Vincent.

E2 Clubman: 1^st Chris Collins, 2^nd Craig Orton, 3^rd Mark Rayers.

Over 40: 1^st Peter Archer, 2^nd Peter Young, 3^rd Michael Hughes.

Sportsman: 1^st Tim Pearce, 2^nd Daniel Searle, 3^rd Mark woodman.